By Deacon Oran Struecker
Why do we have to suffer? Is there any benefit to the suffering we endure? One morning when I was sitting in Adoration, praying for answers to life’s challenges, this is what the Lord put on my heart.
Know that I am always there, waiting for you to turn to me, to surrender to me, to put your trust in me. Know that I will take care of everything, but it is in my time, because I know what is best for you. Yes, there is pain and suffering involved. Your suffering is doing something. It does not go without profit. You want a life that is a cakewalk, one without pain or suffering, an easy life? I walked this earth with pain and suffering. You want to be like me? So, you will have pain and suffering. If you didn’t have pain and suffering, you would want to stay in this world even more than you do now. Heaven is something to look forward to. The time on this earth is like a blink of the eye. When you put all your trust in me and let go of this world, that is when you will see me.
When you find yourself going through challenges or struggles, remember that God is with you at all times. He is waiting for you to turn to Him and surrender to Him. He will take care of everything. As we approach Lent, offer your sufferings to help someone around you. Do not let your suffering go without profit.