Homeless by Choice
Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.
Hebrews 2:18
Keith Wasserman has chosen to be homeless for a few days every year since 1989 in order to grow in love and compassion. “I go to live on the streets to expand my perspective and understanding” of people who have no homes to live in, says Keith, executive director of Good Works, Inc.
I’m wondering whether Keith’s approach to become one with those he’s serving might be a small picture of what Jesus did for us. God Himself, the Creator of the universe, chose to confine Himself to the vulnerable state of a baby, to live as a human, to experience what we all experience, and to ultimately die at the hand of humans so that we can experience a relationship with God.
The writer of the book of Hebrews stated that Jesus “shared in [our] humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil” (2:14). Jesus was made lower than the angels, even though He’s their Creator (v. 9). He became human and died, even though He’s immortal. And He suffered for us, even though He’s the all-powerful God. Why would He do this? So that He could help us when we go through temptations and bring reconciliation between us and God (vv. 17-18).
May we experience His love today, knowing He understands our humanity and has already provided the way for us to be cleansed from our sins.
By Estera Pirosca Escobar
REFLECT & PRAY
Jesus, thank You for Your sacrifice.
Have you come to Jesus and experienced His love and forgiveness? If yes, how does this reality affect your life today? If not, will you receive Him today?
Your gift changes lives. Help us share God’s love with millions every day.
INSIGHT
Biblical scholars are uncertain about the identity of the author of Hebrews and of the author’s intended audience. But it’s clear the author is writing to a group of Christians (perhaps of Jewish background) who have suffered because of their faith, including persecution and loss of property, and yet who’ve shown compassion (10:32-34). The author encourages them to hold on to their “confidence” in God and to endure and continue doing His will (vv. 35-36). Alyson Kieda
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