When Paul proclaims Jesus as the Messiah, he makes it very clear that Jesus is the fulfillment of God's promises. God is always with us - we are never alone, not even for a moment. God cared for the people of Israel throughout their history, just as He cares for each of us throughout our own life. Our own tendency is to feel alone and abandoned whenever we are faced with diffculties and rough spots in our lives. It is during these times that we should remember all of God's past kindnesses and graces. We can then be assured that God has not forgotten us. He will surpass even Himself in kindness and mercy.

We have a big mission. We are to be a reflection of Jesus, revealing him to others. Whoever welcomes the one who is working on behalf of Jesus receives the Lord himself. It is important, then, to show the same compassion, kindness, acceptance of others, willingness to forgive, and eagerness to reach out to the rejected and downtroden. Only then can we be truly representing Jesus. In this same passage, the Master assures us that we will have to face the same struggles and rejection by some. We walk the same path that He did - we face the same trials - and we also receive the same glory. Each day is an opportunity for us to be the Lord's presence in the world.