Do you ever feel...?

Do you ever have "those days" where you feel frustrated but you can't exactly pinpoint it?  Or maybe you can identify multiple areas of life that are causing you angst.  For me, it's easier when I do know exactly what it is--I know where to channel my fixing superpowers.  Because that's often my first reaction: identify problem, complete steps 1-3, move on!

What if these bumps in the road were meant to serve a higher purpose?  What if we didn't write off our feelings as a funk, but instead let them remind us that the only filler for emptiness is the One who made us.

I would argue that that realization is a game changer.

As Easter approaches, I am reminded that not only did Jesus die for me, but he also became human--a person who had feelings just like I do, even in 2014.  He doesn't just reside in Heaven, gazing down in pity on my funks or bad days or indecisiveness--he identifies with me.  It's the difference between viewing him as a distant being and viewing him as a dear friend who has experienced similar struggles.  If you could call one or the other, which would you choose?  Certainly a friend who understands your struggles--you and I crave camaraderie when life gets unpredictable.

Jesus gave up everything to become human and take on our feelings, temptations and struggles firsthand.  God gave up his Son.  Romans 8:32 reminds us, "He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?"  It may not always be on our timetable and there may be moments of cloudiness, but the best news is that we have a Saviour who understands our feelings firsthand--and continues to love us.