Sometimes we forget that Jesus is one of us. He suffered, He was lonely, hungry, thirsty, tired, and even discouraged and disappointed at times. He wept tears, and He loved to be with friends, while at other times He longed to be alone with God. Having been like us in all things but sin, He is able to be compassionate and to help us in our struggles. Ironically, many people are reluctant to share their weaknesses and struggles with Jesus out of a sense of shame or fear. He is not the last one we should call on but the very first. He is our compassionate friend and brother, not our judge.

The appearance of the Lord's anointed in the temple was expected to be a frightening experience. It would involve purification and suffering. And yet when he does arrive, as reported in Luke's Gospel, it is a very quiet and subdued event. He appears as a helpless baby, with all the limitations of a human body. And it is through the sharing of the human experience that He will purify us, not be force or fire. Those privileged to be present - Simeon and Anna - marvel with joy at the gracious kindness of God. They know that salvation is at hand. In the midst of our own life journey with all of its struggle and difficulties, we should know that we are not forgotten. The Lord Jesus walks beside us with His hand on our shoulder. As He is compassionate and helpful to us, let us be the same to others.