Suffering and Jesus

In Overberg's article, he states three important points about Jesus and suffering. In his first point, he explains that Jesus tried to eliminate suffering. Through many stories in the Bible, I have learned that Jesus tried to help the sick and suffering in every way he could. The next point that he suggests is that Jesus did not want people to be punished with suffering. Many people in ancient eras and even now believe that bad things happen because it is God's way of punishing our sins. However, it is the exact opposite. Jesus proclaimed that suffering was not a form of punishment it happened because of the evil in the world. God does not want anyone to suffer. He created us to love us not hurt us. Lastly, Overberg points out that Jesus trusted in a compassionate God. Through out all of the Gospel accounts, Jesus had a deep and strong relationship with his father even at times when he suffered. Jesus always remained faithful and trusting of God even with his last dying breaths on the cross. This teaches us that even through our suffering that God is there for us. God is there to help us and we should trust that he is there to the end. There are two prevalent interpretations of the Paschal Mystery. The first is known as the Theology of Atonement/Ransom. In this interpretation, people believe God to be angry, demanding, and sometimes blood thirsty. The crucifixion and death of Jesus made people look for insight. They searched the Hebrew Scriptures for answers. In these scriptures, people read of the sacrifices the Hebrews performed which included violence and death. I believe this is where the bad interpretation of God. Instead of people praising and loving God, they began to fear him. The second interpretation of the Paschal Mystery is called the Theology of Incarnation. This entire viewpoint is that God created us for Incarnation. It states God's eternal longing to become human. It denounces that God is angry and vindictive. Instead, it explains that God is gracious and sharing in the divine life and love in the creation. When I was younger, I thought God was a vengeful and angry creator. I was taught that I could go to "hell" for one sin. I feared God. I did not have a friendship or love for Him. As I am growing in my faith, I am learning that he is the most wonderful example of love and compassion. I am beginning to understand that God loves every person no matter their faults or choices. I have a new trust for God. I am not fearful that he will hurt me because of my actions anymore.