Living in solidarity

Solidarity--living in union with someone else.

Over the last 2 months, I have experienced this life. I have been living in solidarity with those who don't have a car and have to use public transportation. My commute to school in the morning and home after school have been treacherous. Not until tonight at mass did I realize that the suffering that I have been experiencing is from the Lord, to show me what others are going through. Experiencing this suffering in order for me to serve my students, this is the cost. Is it worth it? Yes, it is worth it. Did I feel alone at times, even though I could see all the others riding the bus with me? Of course. Did I want to give up? Yes. But tonight the Gospel reading was from Hebrews where Jesus calls upon us to hear the message of servanthood and solidarity. "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has similarly been tested in every way, yet without sin." That's who Jesus is--our high priest who knows our human condition completely because he has taken it on in a realistic fashion. Knowing that my Savior has suffered, the greatest suffering, I am okay with experiencing hard times because I know that He is with me, always.

Jesus lived his life for others. In whatever way we can, we are invited by him to also live our lives for others. Not overly concerned with our own circumstances, but fully aware of the common good and how we are called to contribute. The individualism we all practice so predictably is out of place in the Kingdom. Jesus, even as he tries to bring them along, is warning James and John of the cost of discipleship. It's steep, he tells them. He has the same message for us.

"Almighty God, give us strength and joy in serving you as followers of Christ. Amen."