In the mystery of God’s love, suffering is never wasted. As Catholics, we hold a deep and paradoxical truth: that our pain, grief, and hardships can become a powerful gift—when united to Christ’s own suffering. We’re not mere spectators of Calvary. We are invited, through grace, to carry our sliver of the Cross and participate in the saving work of Christ.
“I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions…” — Colossians 1:24
Our pain doesn’t need to be wasted, it can have purpose. Jesus does not abandon us in our grief. In our cry—“Lord, do you not care?”—we echo the disciples’ storm-tossed fear, and still He answers with love. Even in our weakest, faltering efforts to suffer well, He is near. Our suffering becomes redemptive not because of its intensity, but because of who we offer it to.
Our suffering can save the world. The mother staying faithful through depression. A student struggling to forgive. A cancer patient clinging to hope. Each one, in choosing love over bitterness, becomes a co-worker in redemption. We get to join our small offering to Christs, like drops of water mingling in the chalice at Mass. And together, these hidden sacrifices shake heaven.
When we suffer for love of Jesus, something changes in us—and in the world. Grace multiplies and hearts soften and miracles happen unseen. We are not alone: the communion of saints surrounds us, and our offerings are joined in this divine symphony of love.
So if you’re aching today, wondering whether God sees—He does. He always has and He cares more deeply than we can imagine.
Let’s suffer boldly and humbly for love. Let’s help save the world.
Smitten With Goodness 