Suffering

How many times have we questioned the suffering, afflictions, and disabilities of children, parents, spouses, and loved ones? We may even ask, “Why does God allow this?” It might be that some disorders and suffering are genetic, brought on by age, or even poor decisions. Suffering is the way of the Cross. We all must pass through that hour of suffering. Is it a test of our commitment and loyalty to God? I am not certain anyone can answer that question, except God Himself.

What I do know is that Jesus took on the burden of all of our sins through His sufferings, from the crowning with thorns, the scourging at the pillar, the piercing of His body, to the nailing on the Cross. Yet, did His Mother not suffer as well? Many of the Saints during their lives suffered as well. An example is Saint Padre Pio, who bore the stigmata for many years. Saint Bernadette suffered, and the world has known many martyrs.

Does God give us more than we can bear? God does not take away our suffering, but through prayer and offering up our pain to unite with Christ’s suffering, He gives us the ability to bear our pain. That child Sometimes, we witness the suffering of a young child, and then that child dies. We don’t see the love or mercy, especially when it hits close to home. Yet, that child is suffering no more and has been met by Christ, the child’s creator, and taken up to heaven. Perhaps, if we could see that child’s future as only God can, we would understand the mercy and love God used in His wisdom to take that child home with Him.

For we all rightfully belong to God, and even parents have a period for enjoying, loving, and teaching their child to live according to God’s will. When we leave this world, no one knows the day, nor the hour, but God. Therefore, we are warned to remain vigilant.

When we accept our Cross without complaining and saying “Why me?”, we may want to ponder “Why not me?” Many accept their cross and offer it up to Jesus’ suffering on the cross. God will show mercy and love by walking beside us. He helps us when we fall and provides the courage and tolerance to continue on our journey toward Him.