Ministry

Finding Hope in the Midst of Suffering

Most of us do whatever we can to avoid suffering. We’d rather skip the pain, sidestep the heartbreak, and move on quickly when life feels hard. And yet, we find ourselves deeply moved by those who don’t run from it, those who sit with us in our grief, who walk with us through the storm, and who even choose to carry the weight of suffering for the sake of others.

That’s why we hold such deep respect for people like the ANZACs, firefighters, and carers; people willing to step into difficulty to protect and serve others. 

And it’s also why the story of Jesus is so powerful. At the heart of our faith is a God who didn’t avoid suffering but chose it. 

Jesus knew what it meant to be hungry, homeless, rejected, and betrayed. He willingly carried pain, even to the cross, not to make suffering disappear, but to show us that we are never alone in it.

The truth is that suffering changes us. When our students and staff shared in chapel, they reminded us of this: each story of loss, struggle, or disappointment can also be a story of perseverance, of growing character, and of finding hope. Not everyone chooses to respond this way, but when we do something beautiful happens.

So, if you’re in a hard season right now, take heart. Your pain isn’t wasted. 

God can use it to shape strength, deepen love, and remind you that His presence is with you, always. 

Know that Jesus chooses to join you in your suffering, and that you are never alone.

God bless you today.

Chris Mann

College Pastor