September 10

The Attraction Of Christ's Humanity

Large crowds followed Him, and He healed them there. — Matt 19:2 BSB

and when they found Him, they said, “Everyone is looking for You!” — Mark 1:37 BSB

A line once spoken in a Roman theater and met with thunderous applause holds true for the Son of Man—“I am a man, and nothing that touches humanity is foreign to Me.” This was true during His earthly life, and it remains true always, as illustrated throughout the Gospel stories.

Our Lord blesses the union of husband and wife in holy marriage; He takes their children in His arms; He inspires young men and women with the highest ideals; He warns men about the dangers of wealth and power; and He promises those willing to give up home, family, and comforts for His sake that they will be abundantly compensated.

There is no aspect of human life that Jesus is unwilling to share. Through all relationships and situations, He waits to bring the fragrance of perfect love. Is this not the gift we all need, but so many miss? Why do so many marriages fail? Is it not often because each person seeks to take rather than to give, to be served rather than to serve? If both partners were inspired by a love that made the other the center of thought, care, and tenderness, the wedding bells would ring on for all the years to come.

Christ’s love is so irresistible that when He is truly presented, boys and girls turn to Him as flowers turn to the sun. But, sadly, our bad example and failures often prevent them. How weak is our response to His love! We are willing to live moral, respectable lives because it suits and pleases us, but when it comes to truly following Him—giving up wealth, status, and comfort for His sake—we turn away. We admire His ideals and teachings, but often walk away sorrowfully because, in truth, we love ourselves more than we love Him.

Prayer

Higher than the highest heavens,
Deeper than the deepest sea.
Lord, Thy love at last hath conquered;
Grant me now my soul's petition,
None of self, and all of Thee. Amen.