When you see victims of calamities, you wonder how they feel. Storm brings flood, landslide injury and death, hunger pain and suffering. If God is good, why is evil present? In fact, the reality of evil and suffering is more seen that the presence of a good God. Comforting people in pain becomes hard. In my experience, it’s better to just make your self near. Be compassionate, a loving-listener, and a wounded healer.
The problem of suffering and pain is an ancient dilemma. To many, it is a crisis of faith. Now more than ever, it is more evident. Reality can be harsh. Nature can be unforgiving. The so-called “mother Earth” becomes whimsical. Many advocates blame human negligence. But to no avail, it’s not a winning streak. It only adds up to more questions than answers.
I have had my own share of pain. I tried to find their purposes. Someone said, “Such things should happen.” Suffering as consequence, punishment, warning, test or discipline could appeal to the heart, but not so with reason. We admit though that reasons cannot know everything especially that “hidden things belong to God.” But in my life, it only leads me to faith that seeks understanding—that we must learn to live with mystery.
In my life journey, suffering gave birth to faith and hope. It was where a felt Christ agonizing with me, “My God, why have you forsaken me?” When I cried in anger, I felt God understands my doubt, disappointments, and fears. It was really a humbling experience; it taught courage too. When I look back those times where I felt God was not good enough, it was then that His goodness prevailed.
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