Suffering at TAMHWTS...

I would describe Suffering, as one of the most multidimensional experiences that is certain to befall any given individual. I often view it as specifically relative to each individual personality. That is to say, one person may struggle profoundly to wade through a certain bog, while another may seem to expend little or no energy across the same terrain. It could be said that one person may have more knowledge of what it takes to overcome specific obstacles placed in their path. While it may only be a matter of storing the right equipment for the trip, -at the risk of over-simplification... a pair of waterproof boots will hardly do as good a job, as comfortably as a 500hp airboat. Though to watch the struggle, evokes at some level a juxtapositioning of emotion -pity, for the soul who is stuck with only a pair of boots, yet at the same time, (with all due respect) a subdued glee... for being somehow cosmically spared from the situation.

Though to classify suffering only as a problem to be solved is probably somewhat of a social misconception. I can only speak from my own background, but it seems that we (in the Church for the most part) are taught to endure suffering for a time, until it passes. While perfectly understandable from a finite human standpoint, would hardly be classified as core doctrine. As a quick example, Jesus said Himself that "...you always have the poor, and whenever you wish can do good to them; but you do not always have Me (context implies here on earth)." (Mark 14:7) And "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their sorrows." (Ps. 147:3) That doesn't sound like a utopian life to me.

So much of the Father's character would be lost without the chance to give strength, and endurance, and hope to those who struggle... who should by all rights, be the ones least strengthened, least able to endure and resurrect hope from the depths of sorrow. And what of the people who witness the joyful during times of pain, how is it explained other than to the glory of God?

I guess if I gather it all together, what should be more often asked for is help... during the suffering and presence of mind to hope in what is yet to unfold, rather than to pray for everything to be taken away, -which might not be all of what the Lord has in mind.


Feel free to add your side...