One of the most challenging aspects of life is suffering, and it often catches us by surprise. Even though the world is rife with suffering and evil, we have an innate sense that this isn't how things should be. It feels especially unfair when good people suffer. Christianity offers an extraordinary framework to understand our suffering.
Suffering is a reality we all recognize. Christianity explains why we suffer and guides us on how to handle it. Suffering wasn't part of God's original plan; it's a result of human disobedience. The world is broken, and so are our relationships, yet we are powerless to fix this on our own. Despite our disobedience, God doesn't abandon us but calls us back, much like the father in the parable of the prodigal son.
Job's story in the Old Testament profoundly captures the essence of human suffering. Job, a righteous man, endures immense suffering without understanding why. His story illustrates that suffering can come to anyone, regardless of their goodness, and it is not always a direct result of one's actions. Job's friends believe his suffering must be due to some hidden sin, but God reveals that Job's suffering is a test of faith and integrity. Job's steadfastness amidst suffering underscores the mystery of human pain and the importance of trusting in God's ultimate justice and mercy.
In the New Testament, Colossians 1:24-29 provides insight into Christian suffering. Paul writes, "Now I rejoice in what I am suffering for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ’s afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church." Here, Paul reflects on his own sufferings, seeing them as a participation in Christ's redemptive work. This perspective transforms suffering from a senseless plight into a meaningful part of God's plan, wherein believers share in Christ's sufferings to contribute to the growth and strengthening of the Church.
God sent His Son to us, not just to share in the good parts of humanity, but in its worst aspects too. As Isaiah prophesied, He allowed Himself to be crushed and offered Himself for our sins. He bore the terrible burden of sin and paid its ultimate price.
Jesus is our high priest. As described in Hebrews 4:14-16 and 7:26-28, He makes the offering to atone for our sins, bridging the infinite gap between us and God. By offering His own life, He enables us to be adopted as children of the Most High. This unmerited gift allows us to approach the throne of grace and receive mercy.
When we ask for God's blessings, we should remember the cost. When James and John asked for honor, they didn't realize the price it entailed (Mark 10:35-45). The blessings are invaluable, but the cost is also high. God uses our suffering to bring about good. We look to Christ as our example, taking up our cross, as He came not to be served but to serve and give His life. We must follow His example.
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