Hebrews 2:17-18 For this reason he had to be made like them,[k] fully human in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people. 18 Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted

The Lord became human so he could experience and feel all that we experience and feel so that He could be merciful and be an example for us.  I think this is interesting that it says “might become merciful” implying that maybe He wasn’t already.  When reading the stories in the Old Testament, I think there is some truth to that statement.  In OT testament times, if you disobeyed God, He was likely to kill you on the spot.  But we know now that Jesus suffered greatly, was tempted greatly, and truly understands how we feel when we are hurting.  The only difference is, He didn’t HAVE to go through it all.  At any point He could have said, “forget this, I’m God!” and go back to his Deity self.  He chose his humanity, and stuck with it until the plan of salvation could be realized, because of his GREAT love for us.  He knew that we needed a new plan, a new salvation understanding, that we needed Jesus.

It has comforted me so much to know that Jesus is with me and that He knows how I feel.  That He has a plan and He will see it through.

Jesus thank you for your mercy.  Thank you for your understanding.  Thank you for your faithfulness. Thank you for your salvation.  Thank you for getting your hands dirty and just being in this life with us.