Romans 8:12-17
“Therefore, brothers and sisters, we have an obligation—but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it. For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live. For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.”
Reflection
Paul is clear that, for Christians, with suffering comes glory. But with so much suffering around us, it is difficult to always remember this and not to be overwhelmed by it. Jesus suffered for us, and we should remember that God shares our suffering, and as we hurt, he is also hurting. You do not suffer alone. Equally no matter how much you suffer, it does not stop you from praying for others who suffer, perhaps more than you. Despair is the worst form of self centeredness, and as Christians we are called to carry our Cross and always to focus on the needs of others. So at the end of our look this week on suffering, a call to action through some questions to ask yourself.
Can I:
Ask God to heal others;
Bear my suffering knowing that God loves me;
Care more for others suffering than for my own;
Disciple myself every day;
Enter into prayer every day;
Focus on loving everybody I meet;
Generously give my time to others;
Heal sufferers through my prayer;
Insist my taxes alleviate suffering;
Justify to my God how I spend my time and money;
Kiss the hand that forgives me;
Love my neighbour as myself;
Move mountains with my prayer;
Never forget those suffering;
Open up to be led by the Holy Spirit;
Prioritise others needs over mine;
Question those whose actions lead to suffering;
Restore a sufferer’s faith;
Silently spend time with God;
Thank God for my many blessings;
Understand how God suffers when we suffer;
Value every day as a blessing;
Witness through my suffering;
eXcite in others a love for Jesus;
Zeal for the Holy Spirits’ guidance.
Prayer
Lord Jesus,
You suffered for me so I can be forgiven
and be always with you.
As I and others suffer,
equip us with your Holy Spirit,
so we will forgive, and witness
to your redeeming grace
and everlasting love.
Amen