New Scepter Title: Is Jesus Still Suffering?

With Lent just under three weeks away, Scepter is introducing a timely new book:Is Jesus Still Suffering? Exploring a question which spans centuries of Christian theology and debate, this book is the perfect companion to fasting, prayer, and almsgiving.

Suffering and Symbolism

The crucifix is an image at the heart of our Catholic worship. It is a prominent reminder of the suffering of Christ. But is itjust a symbol? Many Christians have no idea that Jesus suffers even now, today — and that his suffering is ongoing, not just a single event from two thousand years ago. 

To bring the crucifixion out of Nazareth and into our everyday lives, this book dives into the present reality of Christ’s suffering. It sheds light on Christ’s continual suffering. Through this understanding, we can be further attuned to Christ’s sacred humanity: his joys and sorrows. 

Consoling Christ 

When we understand Christ, we recognize the urgency to console his Heart. This understanding of our responsibility to love and console the heart of Christ is an epiphany. It is the turning point in the Christian life. 

This book begins with a focus on friendship with Christ in our spiritual lives. It outlines the most helpful means of getting to know him through revelation, the Gospel, and prayer. 

Later, the book explains the two motivations to respond to Christ’s love. These are gratitude and compassion for his sorrowful Heart. Compassion leads us to desire to relieve Christ’s wounds, which in turn spurs our generosity. This logical explanation reveals the perennial relevance of the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

About the Author

Fr. Michel Esparza received his medical degree from the Catholic University of Louvain (Belgium). In 1997, he received his doctorate in philosophy from the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in Rome. He was ordained a priest in 1986 and exercises his ministry in Antwerp, Belgium, where he gives spiritual guidance to persons of all ages and walks of life. His publications include books and articles on Christian spirituality, the life and thought of Edith Stein, and the relationship between humility and self-esteem.