Christianity and Suffering
In human life, suffering is not merely an episode, an event, or a passing psychological state - it is a condition. [...] suffering is as much a feature of human life as is joy, wonder, or satisfaction.
If Christianity is to be any more than an interesting explanatory system for those who enjoy the diversions of metaphysical philosophy, then it must open in us a way to live abundantly in and with our suffering, give us hope, empower us to live with others in their suffering, and discern the difference between the suffering characteristic of human existence and suffering that demands alleviation or resistance. That is, Christianity as a living faith must sustain and heal human persons as we "suffer" the long journey of a life lived through the ebb and flow of pain and joy, struggle and peace [...] Christianity must open a way for us to face suffering, not as an anomaly or a momentary obstacle on the way to a place where God will be present tous but as an enduring feature of human life in which God is with us.
-James Farwell, "This Is The Night"
Labels: Recommend, Reflection, Thorns
