Too close for comfort?

‘Jerusalem, Jerusalem! You kill the prophets, you stone the messengers God has sent you! How many times have I wanted to put my arms around all your people, just as a hen gathers

her chickens under her wings, but you would not let me!’ (verse 34)

Read Luke 13:31-35

It’s distressing as a parent to see your child in pain, especially if your attempt to comfort them is rejected. In my experience it’s not the love and comfort that the child rejects. The child is simply confused, not knowing what they want or what the problem is. They push me aside because they’re angry, proud, disillusioned or afraid.

We sometimes behave that way towards Jesus. What is it in your life that stops you from letting Jesus put his arms around you? Are you afraid others will label you as being weak? Does pride step in and say, ‘I don’t need help. I can do it myself ‘? Maybe you’re feeling all at sea, tossed around and struggling to keep afloat. Or is it that you don’t feel you deserve such tender care because of something you’ve done or failed to do?

Jesus says to you, ‘My heart aches for you. Here I am. Let me help. I know how you feel even if you don’t. I know what you need even if you don’t. I love you even if you don’t love yourself. Trust me. Let me come close.’

Jesus, help me to look to you for protection, comfort and strength. Give me a stronger trust in you. Amen.

by Janet Eiby, in ‘Refreshment for each Day’ (LCA, Openbook, 2003)

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