He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. ~ Isaiah 53:3

Jesus, Son of God, the Light of the world, actually willingly came down to earth to suffer for sinners. For men who despised Him...

Well, okay, maybe it's not that bad if people you don't call friends shun you. Unpleasant, perhaps, but bearable.

But when those nearest and dearest to you, whom you call friends, desert you in the hour of your need...

Yet, that was exactly what Jesus went through. When He was arrested by the priests and elders, all His disciples fled from Him. Even Peter, who had earlier on swore he would follow Jesus unto death, ran away when Jesus was arrested.

He knew that they would; yet He endured it. That's why He understands perfectly and can comfort those who are betrayed and deserted - because He was, too.

King David wrote in Psalm 41:9 - Even my close friend, whom I trusted, he who shared my bread, has lifted up his heel against me.

King David experienced it, and he was able to say with confidence and hope "But you, O LORD, have mercy on me...In my integrity you uphold me and set me in your presence forever. Praise be to the LORD, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Amen and Amen." ~ Psalm 41:10,12-13

He knew that even if men betrayed him, deserted him, left him alone at a time when he most needed help, God will ultimately be there for him and with him.

Dear Lord, thank You for Your faithfulness and mercy! Thank You that You care for us, and watch over us with compassion even though we are wretched sinners. Lord, continue to guide us and refine us. Amen.