Pain and suffering! We all have experienced it. We all recognize that none of us are immune from it. As a Permanent Deacon I hear plenty about pain and suffering from those who are compelled to share with me, in part, because I am clergy. I hear about brave people dealing with illnesses and sickness, caring for infirmed relatives, and I hear of the pain and suffering from others these days related to economic issues; finances, loss of a job or anxiety about the future. Pain and suffering!
We heard about this yesterday at Mass. In the 2nd reading from Hebrews we heard: although he was a Son, he learned obedience through what he suffered, and being made perfect he became the soure of eternal salvation to all who obey him. Yes, Jesus was not immune from suffering, but he learned through it because He was always conformed to the will of the Father.
We too will not be immune from suffering. God does not will that you and I suffer, but He does allow it. And He has a plan for us, even in our suffering. Consider the following: Like Jesus we can learn obedience from suffering and find the blessings in our sufferings. This will require great faith and trust in God's holy will. Since Jesus suffered, He is fully able to sympathize with us, in our pain and suffering. Turn to Jesus in prayer, deeply intimate prayer, when we turn to Him.
Just as Jesus endured his pain and suffering, we too can endure the pain and suffering and remain faithful; remain hopeful!
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