We suffer because we allow ourselves to suffer.
Rejoice in the Lord always. Philippians 4:4
Now, I realize that this is a sensitive one. Suffering and pain are real, and I have experienced their sting—even their deadening linger.
And,
The legendary Apostle Paul—and many others throughout the centuries and traditions—attest to an experience of life and God in which suffering is replaced by connection. And in that connection—to God, the Source of Life, trust, unity, wholeness, purpose, and all things GOOD—are ours, and we experience joy despite the circumstances.
I should say that this is not my regular experience of life, but I’m working on it, and I’ve experienced it enough to know it’s possible. It’s not “New Age;” it’s not “magic;” it’s not “weird.” Those are things people say when they don’t understand, or are afraid.
Paul drove it home this way: Christ, who is your life… (Colossians 3:4) Christ—the Creating-Saving-One, also known as Jesus—is our life. So, connection with our Creator is ultimate and overwhelms our suffering with blessing and the awareness that there is so much more.
That doesn’t discount pain. On the contrary, I hope it brings purpose and possibility.