Suffering - an act of extreme kindness

To explain the Crucifixion/Resurrection of Christ we must remember that this act of divine kindness opened the gates of paradise for all that will seek this eternal existence God has created for us. When evil entered the world the gates of paradise closed and no one was able to become one with God. The reality of sin became so atrocious that only a divine person could pay the ransom which now was held before God. Humanity had been kidnapped and would be released once the ransom was paid.

Of course the payment had to be a divine entity and there was only one who was divine; God himself. The manner which God would use would be found through the Incarnation God entering the world in the person of His Word, Jesus.

If you look at the moment Jesus died, handing his spirit over to his Father; “And, behold, the veil of the sanctuary was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth quaked, rocks were split, tombs were opened, and the bodies of many saints who had fallen asleep were raised. And coming forth from their tombs after his resurrection, they entered the holy city and appeared to many. (Mt. 27: 51 -53). The ransom was paid.

God, through the Incarnation of Jesus became the vehicle that would pay the ransom. What caused this divide between God and man? Sin! Putting this sin into a proper perspective we need to understand its meaning. Sin is not a thing, it is an offense! Sin therefore becomes a living entity from which only the Passion of Christ secretly becomes the source from which forgiveness of our sins will pour forth inexhaustibly. (cf CCC 1851).

Speaking with one person who can not grasp the idea of suffering on our part makes God happy. I pointed out God never is happy or joyful over anyone's suffering, especially his Only Son’s crucifixion. Why then do we say to suffer is a gracious thing?

Jesus’ suffering, crucifixion, and death did not eliminate the constant suffering that goes on constantly throughout the world. His death paid the ransom for our kidnapping and opened paradise for all who seek it. However, sin still spreads its grasp on everyone and attempts to bring souls to an unbelieving world and the pit of hell. We who suffer and offer these periods of sanctification to God for the expiation of sins in others pleases God. Suffer, offer, and accept our part in releasing souls from their own release of sin.

Ralph B. Hathaway, Suffer and spread kindness.