Dear Jesus,
As the eternal Son in the flesh, You suffered to the utmost. You came to a fallen world, Your world, Your creation, which was ruined sin. You desired life and abundance for Your creation, but we chose death and destruction. You have reason, more than any, to shed tears over brokenness.
You are the suffering servant who took on every sin of Your people. You held its weight. You did not tell Your disciples to "get over" grief, and You did not overlook sorrow. But You took time to express sadness over life's trials, and You mourned with Your people.
I thank You for enduring the suffering in the wilderness for me. You surpassed the test that I and the Israelites failed. Under harsh conditions, when You were weak and without nourishment, You clung to God's Word as Your source of life. With the Word, You defeated Satan's temptation.
Lord, I confess I often do not feel like I can persevere through hardships. When I face disappointment, prolonged pain, the loss of a loved one, or unemployment, I want to give up. I have no strength in me. I do not search for Your Word, and I do not cling to the cross. I forget the suffering You endured so that I may have hope and joy.
Spirit of Jesus, restore within my heart the joy of Your salvation. Help me to continue to exercise my faith in hard times. Bring to my remembrance Your Word and how I am able to overcome through the gospel. Lord, I desire to endure suffering in a way that mirrors Your sacrifice. Help me grieve honestly while holding on to eternal hope.
In Your name, amen.
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