Christian Reflection and Prayer

TEXT: But You, O Lord, do not be far off! O You my help,
come quickly to my aid (Psalm 22:19).

Now Jesus' prayer turns from His enemies to God. He
pleads with His Father not to continue forsaking Him, but
to come quickly to His aid. Notice the way Jesus calls
the Lord "My Help" and pleads with Him not to stand far
off with His back turned, but to rush quickly to Him,
coming close and giving Him help and aid.

Sometimes when we go through difficult struggles in our
lives it seems God is standing off at a distance, not
noticing or not concerned with our plight. Jesus gives us
a tremendous example in His passionate plea, calling on
God to come quickly, providing aid and whatever help is
needed. But there is a great difference between our
sufferings and those of Jesus. He became sin for us, and
was therefore forsaken by God. But since He has removed
our sins we will never be forsaken.

Psalm 46:1 reminds us, "God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble." After His resurrection Jesus
promised, "Behold, I am with you always, to the end of the
age" (see Matthew 28:20).

Because Jesus took our sin on Himself and bore the curse
and fierce punishment of God in our place, we never need
fear that God will forsake us or stand far off while we suffer.
He is right here to comfort us, sustain us, strengthen us,
and deliver us.

THE PRAYER:

Lord Jesus Christ, thank You for removing my sin and guilt,
so I may confidently call on You for help in all times. Amen.

(Lenten Devotions from Lutheran Hour Ministries)