One of my children died. As a father, I would very much preferred to die in his place.
I also lost my mother to a long painful battle with cancer. She was an incredible loving woman. I blamed God. How could you let this happen to such a beautiful soul? I was furious with God, and deeply hurt... So,yes I have known suffering.
My mother said to me shortly before she died...Don't be angry with God.
You see God was with her in her suffering, and with me in mine, even if I would not allow him to comfort me. I begged God to allow me to suffer this cancer and die rather than her...
Then it hit me. This is exactly what Jesus did on the cross, suffer in our place. My suffering is real, but it is a mystery I do not completely comprehend. God the Father allowed Christ to suffer...but it secured everlasting joy and peace for all who will accept it. I am called to join my suffering with his to participate in his work of salvation. He suffered for me, but also with me. And I do praise and thank him for the opportunity to participate in his work, even if it means suffering.
Yes, praise God who proved his love for me by allowing himself to be tortured and nailed to a cross for my sins
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