During this week Christians remember the trial and crucifixion, death and burial, of Jesus. But, this is not the end of the Story of Jesus. Don’t miss next Sunday’s amazing episode!
One of the themes of Holy Week as recorded in the Gospels is, “Why do bad things happen to good people?” Perhaps you have asked this question yourself when you have experienced a time of personal suffering. I recall a number of incidents when I asked God that question. The response I received was not always the same. Sometimes I realized that I had sinned and that I needed to change some aspect of my daily life. Other times it was revealed that my faith in God’s loving presence being with me, even in my time of suffering, was being used by God to bring benefit to others as well as strengthening my faith.
Since the evening walk in the Garden of Eden when the Creator experienced the loss of relationship because humankind was hiding due to their disobedience, suffering has been a part of life. Some suffering, but not all, is the result of our own actions; some is due to the actions of others. Sorting this out can be a difficult and painful experience. The critical thing to remember is that we are not alone; you and I and God will get through this suffering together. Praise God!
Bible Reading: 1 Peter 4:15-19; Romans 5:3-5 (New Living Translation)