Reflection on Suffering

Ever encounter a verse that just resonates deep?  That’s been the case for this poem and me.  I received it recently on a prayer card – in memory of a beautiful soul, not long departed.
 
God hath not promised
skies always blue,
Flower-strewn pathways
all our lives through;
God hath not promised
sun without rain,
Joy without sorrow,
peace without pain.
But God hath promised
strength for the day,
Rest for the labor,
light for the way,
Grace for the trials,
help from above,
Unfailing sympathy ~
undying love.
 
~ Annie Johnson Flint ~
 
Working in an apostolate that prays for intentions from people and families across the country, paired with my own personal experiences in senior care and hospice volunteering, has led me to contemplate and, at many times, grapple with, the meaning of suffering, to a greater extent then perhaps I would otherwise.   
 
I think that’s why I love this poem so much.  It helps me accept a mystery that relies more on my faith then my reason.  Reflecting on the stanzas and the life of the author through whom it was inspired, reminds me that Christ didn’t come into this world to take suffering away, He came to transform it and give us hope.