**Sip Saturday is written by our Saturday morning contributor, M.H. Elrich. A beautifully gifted Christian author who seeks to honor the Trinity in her writing. She hopes that her words will encourage women to draw closer to God, whether that is through her fantasy series or her weekly devotionals.
Cornerstone Scripture:
“Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things…”
-Hebrews 2:14A ESV
Jesus was human.
Think about that for a second.
This means, as gross as it sounds, that he peed and pooed like a human being.
This means that he bled and bruised when he got scrapes.
This means that he made jokes and laughed with his family and friends.
I could go on, but I think you got the picture.
Jesus was a human being. That’s why it says he “likewise partook of the same things.” He was also Jewish, meaning that he could trace his ancestry back to David, and even further back to Abraham. He was male, which means he had the parts and looks of a man. Unlike many medieval paintings, Jesus probably was tanned, with curly brown or black hair.
Yet, his human nature didn’t just extend to the outside. Inwardly, though he was God AND human, he was tempted like any man. He probably had to fight all the deadly sins: lust, envy, gluttony, pride, wrath, sloth, and greed. Despite every temptation, he lived a perfect, human life.
His humanity is something that no other god in any other religion can claim. Nor would they want to become human because the gods of other religions often see human beings as ants to squish or play with rather than valuable. Yet, God became flesh so that he could understand his creation and make a payment (or propitiation) for our sins.
This is a reminder to us that our humanity shouldn’t limit us in our service for God. If Jesus was able to heal the sick, preach the Word, and love his disciples (all in one day), then so can we. By His Holy Spirit, he will give us the strength and energy to serve God in all the capacities of being human.
Even if you are sick or disabled, God can use you to minister to others in ways that may be beyond your understanding. We are imperfect vessels, but the perfect God came to Earth so that these vessels might be used for his glory. So take all the humanness and know that Jesus is someone who relates and calls you to be His.
Let’s pray.
Dear Lord, please equip me to act as your instruments and carry out your will. Help me to know your humanness means you can relate to my everyday struggles so that I can bring them to you. Let me glorify you even in my broken humanity. In Your Son’s Name, Amen.
Recently, I, M.H., had a series of medical emergencies. You can read the full story here, but if you feel led, you can also donate using this link.
Thank you very much.