“There is only one thing I dread: not to be worthy of my sufferings.” Fyodor Dostoevsky
It is Monday, and on Monday’s we suffer. We long for a kinder gentler weekend colored world of yesterday only to have our dreams dashed by a 9 to 5 burden. I start with a quote from Dostoevsky because I love the nobility of it. He understood, as one versed in the ways of Christ, that suffering has a deep redemptive purpose. No, our suffering does not come from Christ, but it is transformed by Him. Nothing is wasted for those who chase after our Lord. Our Russian literary friend reminds us to face our dread with straightened backs believing beyond proof that it will train us in better living. In suffering, both small – like Monday and large – like illness – one of us will fold under the pressure. When forced to confront this human condition, may we rage at what tries to kill our spirits and render our faith impotent.
“In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 6:33)
Against the suffering of this week you are powerless. Left to yourself, victory escapes you. But with Christ, our Holy victor, you have overcome. His victory is now yours. Death is defeated and sin is powerless. Rage you saint of Christ. Face your doubts, struggles, illness, hypocrisy, and shame with confidence knowing that the only one whom suffering is scared of has redeemed your days from now till Revelation.
Matt simon blog 