BEYOND THIS SUFFERING

The Christians all over the world do commemorate the sufferings death and resurrection of Jesus. This particular celebration is usually announced by the Arch Wednesday, where by using ash, the Christians are reminded that they are dusts and to dust they shall return.

Christ the Son of God came down and suffered for us, that we may have life – not just life, but life to its fullness. Christ suffered for us, leaving us an example; to follow in his steps!

CHRIST’S PASSION: after the rain comes the sun!

One of the most construed words in Christendom is the notion of ‘suffering’. While some Christians see suffering as a necessity, towards the attainment of Eternal glory, others see it as an evil, a deprivation, a curse. But Christ taught us, by His suffering, that the way of the cross is the perfect way to Him. Thus he enjoins us that if anyone loves him, let him in humility take up his cross – daily – and follow Him!

It has become a norm, from the length and breadth of Christendom, for Preachers of the Gospel (although one has to question what actually they preach), to preach posterity, non-suffering, an easy life. These persons fail to understand the place of suffering, not just in Christianity, but in every meaningful endeavour.

At the fall of man, God left man to his means, to fend for himself, to live by himself. Thus, suffering and strife became part and parcel of man’s life. The point here is that man did not have to suffer to perpetuity, but that for every success, man has to work for it.

There abound in life, numerous experiences, where suffering leads to success, freedom and progress; Jesus is our first example!

Jesus came and suffered, he was obedient, even to death on the cross. For this reason, he was glorified. Christ’s glory was brought to the fore, when He overcame the powers of death and rose from the grave – a mighty triumph! As if that was not enough, he ascended into heaven with a [promise of the Advocate, The Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity.

LESSONS FOR US

We must learn as Christians that the way of the cross, though not an easy road, is the best way to glory. Experiences have shown, that achievements which are hard-fought, are more pleasurable than those who are gotten on a platter of gold.

As we journey with Christ in these remaining days, may we die with him to sin and to suffering, and consequently rise with Him in Glory to a new life of Glory and Happiness – Amen!!!

                WISHING ALL CHRISTIANS, A SPIRIT FILLED TRIDUM!