When we think of the sufferings of Christ we usually refer to the events surrounding his death — the torture he was put through at the crucifixion. The letter to the Hebrews asks us to broaden our understanding of what Jesus endured. 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. In other words, Jesus shares with us all the suffering that is part of the human condition. The gospels report that Jesus experienced frustration with his family. He had to endure people judging him and criticizing him. He was reluctant to follow the will of God in Gethsemane. Jesus knows exactly what we are going through.
