Man for the Job
Whether we like it or not, we must be purified to get to heaven. We must shed our old self, our old ways, and become new.
How do we become purified? Suffering. Pretty unappealing, right?
For many, the idea of suffering (or the problem of evil) is a huge hangup, and it’s hard to get past. It’s a deep issue that needs to be unpacked quite a bit, but for now, let’s just look at this simple truth: God can bring goodness out of evil.
St. Paul tells us, “We know that in everything, God works for good with those who love him.” (Romans 8:28)
If we accept that, then no suffering is pointless. Why? Because good can come from it. We may not fully understand it, but we are called to have faith in the face of such trials, and to trust in God’s goodness and His power to bring more good from this present evil.
Everyday, we are faced with suffering, trials, and tribulations. Our challenge is to accept these opportunities. One way we can do this is by volunteering for the worst job. If at work, a job needs to get done that no one wants, accept it. At home, if there’s a middle of the night diaper change, bring it on. Take the job that isn’t your responsibility. Choose the difficult challenge so that we can die to self, love our neighbor, love God, and be purified in the process.