November 19

To this He replied, “Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans, because they suffered this fate? — Luke 13:2 BSB

There is a mystery in suffering that we cannot fully understand. In ancient times, people believed that suffering was always a punishment for wrongdoing. While we don’t know why there is so much pain in the world, we do know that if we accept our suffering, it can bring blessing into our lives.

Many people find immense blessing through their suffering. I once knew a woman who had been unable to walk for fourteen years. She sat in her chair, unable to move, and endured constant, excruciating pain. Yet she was the most patient and uncomplaining person I had ever met. Her face seemed to shine with a holy light. Her presence was a blessing to her family, and her quiet suffering softened the hearts of everyone in her home. There is a ministry in suffering that we may never fully understand this side of heaven.