Obedience through suffering

Son though he was,
he learned obedience from what he suffered...

These words from yesterday’s second reading (Hebrews 5:7-9) should resonate strongly with us, especially in these days when many of us are suffering (in one way or another).

What is being described here is not obedience being learned by the imposition of corporeal punishment.

Rather, part of what is being described here has to do with a fundamental reality of suffering.

We like to think that we are masters of our universe and that we can ensure for ourselves a pleasant and pain-free existence by entitlement and prudence.

Eventually, however, we hit obstacles, set-backs, unpleasant circumstances, and pain.

Thus we suffer.

Even our Lord Himself, in the mystery of the Incarnation, experienced suffering and knew the limitations of human existence (although remaining infinite and one with the Father).

Suffering reminds us that we are not masters of our universe.

Suffering should remind us that God alone is the true and only Master of the Universe.

Thy will be done, O God.
and have mercy on me.