From suffering to worship : a pastoral challenge

Abstract

The intention of this article is not to give an answer to the problem of theodicy which arises because of suffering in this world, but to move beyond the polemic and to give attention to how a person can worship God by finding meaning and hope in suffering. In giving a pastoral response this paper argues that the appropriate use of God images in suffering will help a person find meaning in suffering, thus enabling him\her to become more positive in his/her faith and worship of God. Usually, when we reflect on worship, we do not put suffering and worship together. Yet suffering and worship are connected. Because the process of suffering enables us to become purer and humbler people, if we cooperate with God. It is the pure and humble who have truly learned to love God for who he is and to worship him most deeply.