I think we all remember that there were times, especially in our youth, which brought us deep suffering. There were certain things that happened at school or at home which caused us unspeakable hurt and frustration. At the time, we have to admit, they were just terrible and we didn't think we would ever survive them. However, by the grace of God, we did get through somehow or another and when we look back, often a bittersweet smile comes to our lips. "Yes," we think, "those were hard times, but now that I look back, I am surprised just how I reacted to them." It is amazing how our thinking tends to change after a number of years-how we look at things differently once we have matured.
Unfortunately, we all know that suffering is still a very real fact of life. This is because sin is still a very real fact of life. When suffering happens to us nowadays, it is probably a different kind of trial, but we have the tendency to react in much the same way.
It is important for us to remember, however, that in His tremendous love, God sent us His own Son, and in Him, God has given us some insight into suffering. God's own Son came into this world to suffer trial, temptation, poverty, pain, sorrow, rejection, and death. Jesus suffered on the cross so that we would not have to suffer the eternal torments of hell we deserve because of our sins.
By faith in Christ we know that God is our loving Father. Suffering is what He sometimes uses to draw us closer to Himself, to strengthen us, or to teach us humility, and patience. Sometimes, God permits suffering to come upon us so that by faithful patience and endurance we might witness to others. Seldom do we consider our sufferings as opportunities for growth but, often, that's what they are.
Granted, our later sufferings might very well be more serious then those of our youth, and in the middle of distress we can sometimes lose perspective. Note how our Scripture reading today puts all suffering into perspective. When all is said and done, we will be able to truly agree with Paul, that our sufferings aren't worth comparing with the heavenly glory and joy that awaits us! Just as we are waiting for the Christ-child during this Advent season, as we endure the sufferings of this life, let us look forward to future glory in Christ!
THE PRAYER: Dear Lord, heavenly Father, give us the strength to bear whatever sufferings come our way and help us to realize that they serve to draw us closer to You. Refresh us also through the blessed hope of eternal life, the life that is beyond compare, for Jesus' sake. Amen.
Written by Pastor Thomas Kramer
Hope Lutheran Church
Mount Carmel, Illinois
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