The Human Side Of Jesus

In the narrative of Jesus Christ’s life, it is easy to focus solely on his divinity, his miracles, and his teachings. 

However, a deeper exploration of his earthly experiences reveals that Jesus intimately knew the human condition, including its most challenging aspects. 

Recognising that Jesus was a refugee, experienced despair, knew hunger, and more, allows us to connect with him on a profoundly human level. 

This understanding can deepen our faith and inspire us to respond to the needs of those who face similar trials today.

Jesus was a Refugee

The Gospel of Matthew recounts how, soon after Jesus' birth, his family had to flee to Egypt to escape King Herod’s murderous decree (Matthew 2:13-15). 

This flight into Egypt marks Jesus and his family as refugees, forced to leave their homeland to seek safety in a foreign country. The Holy Family’s experience resonates deeply with the plight of millions of refugees today who flee violence, persecution, and war.

This aspect of Jesus’ life challenges us to extend compassion and support to refugees and migrants. It reminds us that our Saviour himself was once an outsider, reliant on the hospitality and kindness of strangers in a foreign land. 

As Catholics, we are called to welcome the stranger and provide refuge, following the example set by the Holy Family.

Jesus Knew Despair

In the Garden of Gethsemane, on the night before his crucifixion, Jesus experienced profound anguish and despair (Matthew 26:36-46). 

His plea to the Father, "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death," and his prayer for the cup of suffering to pass from him reveal the depth of his emotional agony. Despite his divinity, Jesus fully embraced his humanity, including its moments of intense suffering and fear.

Jesus’ experience of despair assures us that he understands our deepest sorrows and fears. 

When we face our own moments of anguish, we can take comfort in knowing that Jesus has walked this path before us. His response, ultimately submitting to the Father's will, provides a model of faith and trust in the midst of suffering.

Jesus Knew Hunger

The Gospels recount how Jesus fasted for forty days and nights in the desert, during which he was tempted by the devil (Matthew 4:1-11). 

This period of fasting left him physically weak and hungry, emphasising his participation in the basic human need for sustenance. Jesus’ experience of hunger connects him to the many people around the world who suffer from food insecurity and starvation.

As followers of Christ, recognising that Jesus knew hunger should inspire us to work towards alleviating hunger and poverty in our communities and beyond. It challenges us to share our resources and support initiatives that provide food and nourishment to those in need.

Jesus Faced Rejection

Throughout his ministry, Jesus faced rejection and hostility. From his own townspeople in Nazareth who doubted him (Luke 4:16-30), to the religious leaders who opposed and plotted against him, Jesus experienced the pain of being misunderstood and rejected. His ultimate rejection came in the form of his betrayal by Judas and abandonment by his disciples, culminating in his crucifixion.

This aspect of Jesus’ life speaks to those who feel rejected, isolated, or alone. It reassures us that Jesus understands these feelings and stands in solidarity with us. It also calls us to be more inclusive and compassionate, striving to accept and love others as Jesus did.

Jesus Understood Physical Suffering

The crucifixion is the pinnacle of Jesus’ physical suffering. The scourging, the crown of thorns, the nails driven into his hands and feet, and the hours of agony on the cross all testify to the extreme physical pain he endured. Jesus’ willingness to undergo such suffering for the salvation of humanity underscores the depth of his love and sacrifice.

For those enduring physical pain and illness, Jesus’ suffering offers profound solidarity and hope. It reminds us that our suffering is not meaningless, and that we are united with Christ in our pain. It also calls us to provide care and support to those who are suffering, reflecting Christ’s love and compassion.

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Jesus' life on earth was marked by experiences that resonate with the struggles of humanity: being a refugee, knowing despair, experiencing hunger, facing rejection, and enduring physical suffering.

 These aspects of his life invite us to see Jesus not only as our divine Saviour but also as our compassionate brother who understands our trials. 

As Catholics, we are called to follow his example, offering compassion, support, and love to those who face similar challenges. In doing so, we live out our faith in a way that honours Jesus’ life and mission, and we bring hope and comfort to a world in need.