Abandoned and forsaken [Good Friday reflection]

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“Jesus cried out in a loud voice, ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?'”

Jesus experienced the absence of God while in mortal anguish and pain. Can we relate? Yes, we can. At times we feel abandoned and forsaken.

We ask that question, “Why have you forgotten me?” In our spiritual desolations it is easy to forget all the graces and consolations we have received in life. They seem like a distant memory or a dream.

Jesus’ desolation and suffering inspire the good thief to ask, on the cross right next to Him, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.”

He got the response he was hoping for and even more than he could ask or imagine, “Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”

The same for us. Even though we feel forgotten, we are not alone in our suffering. Remember the Father will never abandon us and always provides the timely grace for our eternal salvation.

Ultimately, our greatest triumphs come from suffering with Jesus. And one day we will hear that same encouragement from Him, “Today, you will be with me in Paradise.”

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