David’s troubles surrounded him like a torrent sea storm, a bottomless marsh, and an endless pit – the only escape being death. God remains silent to his cries. David’s enemies take advantage of his downfall. David wept and fasted. He lay in sackcloth, a sign of repentance and humility. Compassion did not occupy the hearts of those who saw him. They either scorned or laughed at him. Whether rich or poor, no one showed compassion. They had their reasons, but none was justified before God.
Jesus’ troubles surrounded him. Religious leaders made sport of him, “He saved others. Let him save himself.” They snarled and spit at him like a torrent sea storm. Solders mocked him like drunkards in a bottomless bottle. God remained silent. “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” “I must endure scorn.”
Jesus’ disciples, those he called his brothers, deserted him. Only his mother, a few women, and young man, John remained at the foot of the cross.
What compassion is in my heart when I pass by a lonely person in the street? When those who made themselves my enemy fall, do I pray for them? Do I repay their violence with vengeance? Do I help a brother or sister in their time of need? Do I give them a glass of water? Or am I a torrent sea storm, a bottomless marsh, and an endless pit?
