The suffering of Jesus Flashcards
How do Catholics approach suffering?
Catholics approach suffering with ambivalence. Catholics generally hold that while suffering is always hard, it is not always evil.
For example when someone passes away from natural causes this is not evil but it does cause suffering for people.
What is Isaiah 53?
It is a passage from the Bible about the “suffering servant”. Christians believe it is a phrophecy about JEsus and how his suffering on the cross would be a blessing for others.
It describes how the acceptance of suffering by a “suffering servant” brought about salvation.
Christians suffering
When christians suffer it is a way to bring them closer to an understanding of Jesus (and how his suffering ultimately brought about salvation) and a way to bring about a greater good.
Although suffering is horrible it can bring about good things.
Overall, Catholics believe that suffering is.a mystery and God uses suffering to bring about good. Even so, evil never becomes good.
JEsus’ suffering
Jesus suffered much during time of his crucifixion, he was beaten, made to wear the crown of thorns and nailed to the cross
Jesus suffered on the cross when he was crucified which makes it easier for christians to endure their own suffering as they believe Jesus understands their pain.
quote for isaiah 53
” He took up our pain and bore our suffering” The Bible
quote for Jesus suffering
” They crucified him” The Gospels
How will this change a Catholics life?
These factors shape how Catholics respond to suffering:
Catholics share their suffering with God in prayer and During mass Catholics pray for the sick, dying and those who are suffering.
They ask God to help those in need and help those who are suffering by giving to charity. Some christians feel it is their vocation to be doctors or nurses and fight against suffering.
