Nobody wants to suffer
A single word could describe the entire history of humankind: suffering. Every person who has ever lived has had to experience suffering. No one asked for it, no one desires it. Many have asked themselves, why must I suffer, and why is it inevitable? There is no definitive answer, because the reasons are complex and multifaceted. We find a significant clue in the words of the Apostle Paul: "I want to know him—to know the power of his resurrection and to participate in his sufferings, so that I may be conformed to his death and may attain to the resurrection from the dead." (Phil 3,10-11).
Sharing in Christ's sufferings is not just imagining what he endured on his way to the cross or watching the scenes in films depicting the blows, the crown of thorns and the nails. It is about much more than the most difficult trials that we might face.
When Jesus saw the pain of the people who came to him seeking healing, he was filled with deep compassion. The Bible tells us that Jesus wept, showing his compassion and sorrow over the death of Lazarus and the suffering of Mary and Martha: “Jesus’ eyes filled with tears. And the Jews said, ‘See how he loved him!’” (Joh 11,35-36).
He longed to embrace the children of Jerusalem like a hen gathers her chicks under her wings: “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you! How often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings; and you were not willing!” (Mt 23,37).
Suffering is an inescapable reality of the human condition, brought about by the decision in the Garden of Eden not to trust God. Through Jesus' example, we can see that in suffering there is also a deep connection with other people and with God himself. Jesus shows us that compassion and solidarity in the face of suffering are ways in which we can support and comfort one another. As we share the suffering of others and support them, we experience a deeper community and come closer to the meaning of life and resurrection. This is the way in which we experience the power of the resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, and ultimately attain the resurrection from the dead.
by Tammy Tkach
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