never alone
“You have fed them with the bread of tears and given them tears to drink in ample measure.” —Psalm 80:6
Jesus is having a rough day. The Pharisees and Herodians are plotting to destroy Him (Mk 3:6). Jesus’ relatives are trying to probate Him by charging: “He is out of His mind” (Mk 3:21). The scribes are asserting that Jesus is possessed by the devil (Mk 3:22). The apostles whom Jesus just chose are not mentioned. Shortly afterward we hear of them and they’re terrified by a storm and lacking in faith (Mk 4:40). Jesus is being attacked from all sides — relatives, the government, the religious establishment. He faces a barrage of enemies, apparently all by Himself.
Does this sound familiar? Maybe you have many rough days. Do you often find yourself bombarded from all sides and yet also find yourself all alone? Jesus had the twelve apostles, but they weren’t much help. You may have a spouse, children, family, and friends, but where are they when you need them? No matter what, Jesus will always be there for you (Mt 28:20). Even if your mother forsakes you, He will never leave you (Is 49:15). Jesus explicitly asserts: “No one who comes will I ever reject” (Jn 6:37).
Prayer: Jesus, because of Your love I can never be alone (Jn 16:32). Thank You.
Promise: “O Lord of hosts, restore us; if Your face shine upon us, then we shall be safe.” —Ps 80:7
Praise: St. Sebastian was healed and restored from an attempted execution so he could confront the emperor again, giving a double witness to his faith in Jesus.
Reference: (For a related teaching on Who Am I in Christ?, view, download or order our booklet on our website.)
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