Absolutes Quote by Christian Wiman
“I am a Christian because of that moment on the cross when Jesus, drinking the very dregs of human bitterness, cries out, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? (I know, I know: he was quoting the Psalms, and who quotes a poem when being tortured? The words aren’t the point. The point is he felt human destitution to its absolute degree; the point is that God is with us, not beyond us, in suffering.)”
About This Quote
Source Sermon: The Cross and Suffering, 2015
The quote highlights that Jesus’ anguish on the cross shows God’s presence in deepest human suffering, not distant.
In simple terms: Jesus felt extreme abandonment, showing God is with us in pain.
Recognize divine companionship in hardship.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal crisis
- grief counseling
- spiritual reflection
- mental health support
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does recognizing divine presence change your response to pain?
- Can you find meaning in suffering without faith?
It may overlook those who experience suffering without religious belief.