Trauma & Compassion

SCRIPTURE: That’s why [Jesus] had to enter into every detail of human life. Then, when he came before God as high priest to get rid of the people’s sins, he would have already experienced it all himself—all the pain, all the testing—and would be able to help where help was needed. Hebrews 2:17-18 MSG

THOUGHT: In recovery from any kind of trauma, it helps to talk to someone who has walked the road before you. But a certain kind of someone — one who hasn’t fallen into bitterness or blame and stayed there. One who can help you name the damage to your life without minimizing it, which is necessary if you are to fully grieve and fully forgive. At the same time, you need someone who charges you with the responsibility to pursue healing, rather than allowing you to live like a victim.

In short, you need someone who’s been there, and emerged from the pit trauma opened up in his/her life with compassion and strength.

Jesus experienced trauma from every degree on the spectrum: mocking, betrayal, lies, defamation of character, unjust anger, being tossed out, name-calling, death threats, brutal beatings, hanging naked in front of others, and abandonment by his closest friends and his own Father. The writer of Hebrews points out that this journey enables him to understand and help us when we need it most. As Hebrews goes on to say, “We don’t have a priest who is out of touch with our reality. He’s been through weakness and testing, experienced it all—all but the sin. So let’s walk right up to him and get what he is so ready to give. Take the mercy, accept the help (4:15 MSG).”

PRAYER: Jesus, High Priest, we accept your mercy and help, grateful that you’ve experienced everything we have and more, and have compassion and strength to offer. And thank you for others along the journey who’ve been to the pit and come back to help in your name.