Patience in Suffering?

This week I have been reading from Paul’s letter to the church in Rome (Romans 8:12-25) and a particular verse really sat on my heart.

“ I believe that the present suffering is nothing compared to the coming glory that is going to be revealed to us.” -Romans 8:18

Apostle Paul shares these words with the church in Rome during a time of persecution that would last over 2 centuries. Many of these Christians would know nothing other than persecution for what they believe in, yet the Apostle Paul encourages them to be patient. Patience isn’t easy. Understanding suffering isn’t easy. Telling ourselves to be patient in our time of suffering for future glory is easier said than done.

This reminds me of a Peanuts cartoon. Charlie Brown is on the pitcher’s mound after giving up nine home runs and he asks his teammates what he should do and why they should suffer in a game like that. Each teammate offers their own answer and in the end Charlie Brown feels like he is surrounded by a theological seminary rather than a ball team.

Now I am not sure if there was an intended greater meaning to this comic strip than the punchline, but I have found one. Charlie Brown is aware of the struggle and suffering his team is enduring and is wondering why they must endure it. I believe the real answer he seeks is not so much an answer, but rather the support of his teammates as he struggles. The Apostle Paul encourages unity in the church as they struggle together and also unity with all of creation as the church joins with creation in its groaning.

As disciples of Christ we are called to do more than just being aware of suffering in the world, we are called to engage it. We may not have the answer to present suffering but we can join with others and show them that we care. How will you join with creation in its groaning? What actions can you take to show that you are aware of suffering and want to do something about it?

In God’s grip,

Pastor Chuck Church