Suffering is an unavoidable fact of life. It is particularly heartbreaking to see an infant or child suffer. It is distressing to know that a young enthusiastic preschooler will soon enter a world of bullies and persecution.
None of us will live on this earth without suffering. Suffering is the consequence of sin. It is unfortunate that some preachers of the so called “prosperity gospel” falsely imply that deep faith and righteous living will eliminate suffering, disease and hurt from your life.
Jesus and His Apostles clearly teach in Holy Scripture that suffering will come to all, even (and sometimes especially) Christians. Jesus tells us in the Sermon on the Mount: “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Matthew 5:10-12
Indeed much of our suffering comes as a consequence of sinful activity. Immoral and criminal activity will eventually lead to temporal suffering and if there is no repentance, also to eternal suffering. But St. Peter reminds us that some of our suffering comes unjustly. When we endure these sorrows, it is a gracious thing.
He says we have been called to follow Christ who also suffered for us. He committed no sin. When He was abused and insulted, He did not return this abuse. Instead He entrusted Himself to God who judges justly. He bore our sins on the cross so that we would die to sin and live to righteousness.
Prayer: O Shepherd of my soul, thank you for suffering the cross for me. Grant me the grace to endure unjust suffering and bear my cross as I walk in your footsteps. Gather me in your arms when the way becomes too difficult. Amen.
The Good Shepherd
Stained glass window at the front of
Immanuel Ev. Lutheran Church
Courtland, MN.
http://mnprairieroots.com/2009/08/26/
God’s richest blessings in Christ,
Pastor Philip Quardokus
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