The question of pain and suffering is a perennial challenge to the notion that we have an all-powerful God who loves us. If I am in pain, and don't see how I have brought events upon myself, a natural question to ask is "Why?"
Countless books have been written on this question, and numerous sermons have sought to deliver effective answers. I recently heard a song which provides a helpful perspective as well- Laura Story's "Blessings."
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1CSVqHcdhXQ&feature=youtube_gdata_player
The background of this song is the struggle her family went through after her husband was diagnosed with a brain tumor. He had undergone surgery and recovered, but some challenges remained. Where is God in these circumstances? Can we accept an answer to prayer which looks different than what we wanted? Her response is that God's answer comes from His greater understanding, and blessings can be seen even through our tears.
In my own life, I have experienced times of joy and sorrow. One difficult circumstance (and blessing) was caring for my father as he declined and ultimately passed away from pancreatic cancer. As our family cared for him, with the assistance of Hospice staff, numerous events occurred which brought joy and pain simultaneously. One blessing we witnessed was the repair of a conflicted relationship with another family member. Without going into a lengthy discussion of the background and history, I will simply note that I had never witnessed this gentleman enter our home before that day ( I was a seminary student in my 20s at that time). As my father's health deteriorated, and his imminent death became more evident, we found joy and hope in this restored relationship. Emotional healing occurred even as a physical cure was not possible.
A theological basis for seeking answers to the "whys" of life, with faith and humility, is found in Genesis 50:20. Joseph was the favored son of his father, his envious brothers sold him into slavery, and then led his father to believe he was dead. After several years, a family reunion in Egypt during famine, and his father's death, his brothers approached him fearfully. Joseph tells them ""you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive." I am convinced that some circumstances are beyond my finite knowledge, and seek to live with a faithful trust that my heavenly Father will care for me much more effectively than I care for my own children- even if I question some of the directions life takes me at times.
