72 | Gospel of Suffering part I

John Paul II speaks of the Gospel of Suffering. He says “The Redeemer himself wrote this Gospel, above all by his own suffering accepted in love” in Salvifici Doloris. We, meaning everyone, are burdened with suffering. It’s natural for us to wish that, and basically expect that God will take it away from us. Suffering cuts directly to what it means to be human. It demands respect and a response. We suffer when we experience any kind of evil, be it “large” or “small.” We want to view suffering through the lens of redemption. Christ answered the question about suffering with his own suffering–and as he did so, John Paul II says that evil was laid bare “before the eyes of Christ’s soul”. And it could not stand. The cross broke evil, somehow, in a way we don’t understand (e.g., read Romans 8). So now, as we approach suffering through the lens of redemption, it is possible to meet there the living waters of life that flow from Christ. WE can actually find redemption in the midst of suffering. We meet Christ there. It’s really important that in this lens, we hold together the Cross and Resurrection and DO NOT allow them to be separated. Listen to the discussion on the podcast!

If you're liking The
Catholic Midlife Podcast,

Download the free guide:

karen and curtis herbert as a midlife coaches

We are Karen and Curtis Herbert, founders of The Catholic Midlife. Our mission is to spark a catholic midlife renewal and help YOU to step into your next season with purpose, hope, and a clear vision for the rest of your life.

Because the rest of
your life matters.