I have been considering the impact of suffering on a person lately. This year we lost a couple young friends to cancer and it seemed so wrong in my human eyes. They were struck down in the prime of life with so much to finish. It couldn't have been time for them to go and WHY did they have to suffer so much to go. My grandmother passed away this year as well. She seemed to want to leave, but something wouldn't let her go. It was as if she had to suffer before she could go. We all hated it. I have been reading Philippians lately and was struck by the joy and encouragement that came from suffering. Philippians 1:29 says, "For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him but also to suffer for him." Can you believe that?! "Granted", as if suffering were a blessing. 2Timothy 3:12 says, "In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil men will go from bad to worse..." Makes you want to jump right into the godly life, huh? Yet, in Philippians Paul says the others were encouraged by his suffering and were made stronger because of it. I came across this prayer recently and have been contemplating it and praying it. Father we thank you for all those who bear suffering with courage and patience. We thank you for the way their lives enlighten and inspire our own. Give to them a sense of their high calling. May they find strength in knowing that they are sharing in the sufferings of their Master and following his perfect example. Be close to them and grant them your strength and your peace. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Anonymous