Is this what Jesus went through, too?

Photo from ABC news

For those of you that missed it, ABC broadcasted some of Pope Francis' virtual meeting with the U.S. this weekend.  (You can watch pieced of it here if you want.)   

In any case, the Pope spoke to three different cities, and to individuals who shared their sufferings with him.  To each person, he gave caring and thoughtful responses.  He told a young girl to be courageous and not fear.  He told a single mother he was proud of her for bringing her daughters into the world.  And he thanked the sisters of religious orders, especially one in particular who helped care for immigrants.  

You could see the impact his kind words had on these people, and I, too, could feel it from my couch.  It was a very positive reminder of the community of caring that Jesus expects from us.

However, I was surprised (why, I'm not sure) to see all the negative comments online about this event.  It truly baffled me how so many people could say so many hateful things about a man doing his best to carry out God's will.   Our Pope listened carefully to the struggles of people he did not know, and offered them encouragement and kindness.  And yet, many online responded with negativity.  

Then it hit me ... I wonder if this is what Jesus went through.  The Gospels tell us there are many times where crowds of people disagreed with Jesus, argued with Him, and even tried to run him off a hill.  All for preaching love.  

I have to admit, I usually don't absorb what that must have been like.  I skim past those few sentences and move onto the miracles and teachings.  

But today the similarities hit me like a ton of bricks.  Like the Pope this weekend, Christ was simply spreading God's word.  He exuded kindness and love.  And like the Pope, Our Lord was met with anger and hatred.   Why?  How is that possible?

It is enough to break your heart, you know?

But as Jesus taught us, we must pray for all of them.  And so I do.

God bless you.