““Compassion shares the suffering of another. Jesus, it really is enough to know that you suffered for us on the cross. I stake my life and my certain death on this gospel—this good news that you were “pierced for our transgressions . . . crushed for our iniquities” (Isa. 53:5 NIV), that by your blood “you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation” (Rev. 5:9). What you suffered on the cross, you suffered once and for all (Heb. 10:1–18), and we worship you now and will worship you forever because of your matchless sacrifice. But it’s also as overwhelming as it is comforting to know that you share in our sufferings right now. You suffered for us, once and for all, and you suffer with us now. During the times when you feel so far away, so removed, so disengaged, you could not be nearer than you actually are, Jesus. I pray with gratitude, in your compassionate name. Amen.””
