Emotional pain is often the deepest sufferings we can experience. It may be even more profound than any physical ailment. When we find ourselves in moments of intense suffering, those moments when we realize we don't have control over our circumstances. We think we do, but then reality hits: we need our Father's help.
Hi, friends! We're so glad you’re here, especially during this Lenten season. Today, we want to dive into the conversation about suffering, its purpose, and how we can find strength through it. We're excited to be joined by our dear friend Megan Hjelmstad, who has so much wisdom to share on this topic.
The Depth of Emotional Pain
Recently, I was reflecting on a podcast episode where a guest shared something really profound: emotional pain is the deepest kind of suffering. It's easy to overlook the agony that Jesus experienced in the Garden of Gethsemane. We often jump straight to the Stations of the Cross without fully entering into the anguish He felt. But if we really understood the depth of His emotional suffering, it would change our lives.
Megan shares how her own spiritual journey has taken her deeper into understanding this suffering. Everything Jesus did was out of love for us, and His agony was a reflection of the Father's heart breaking for us. It’s amazing to think about how our suffering can unite us with His passion and ultimately lead us to redemption.
Understanding Spiritual Exercises
During our conversations, Megan also introduces us to the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius. These exercises are a series of meditations designed to deepen our relationship with God. They can be done in a retreat format or integrated into daily life over several months. This practice has been transformative for her, allowing her to pray more deeply and intentionally, even amidst the chaos of life as a mom of three teenagers.
Living with Chronic Suffering
Megan’s journey also includes living with chronic suffering. She emphasizes the importance of creating a prayer space at home, especially when physical challenges make it harder to attend Mass or participate in group prayers. Her routine includes daily prayers and intentions, which have become anchors for her amidst the storms of life.
She mentions a beautiful practice called the Seven Sisters Apostolate, where a group of women dedicates a holy hour each week for a particular priest. This practice has not only nurtured her spiritual life but also helps her to focus her intentions on others, transforming her suffering into something redemptive.
Offering Our Suffering
One of the most powerful insights we discussed is the idea of offering our suffering for the sake of others. When we experience pain—be it emotional, physical, or spiritual—we can choose to unite it with Christ’s suffering. This act of offering becomes a form of intercessory prayer. It’s a way to transform our anguish into something beautiful and purposeful.
Megan has established a routine where she offers her daily suffering for different intentions, including her family, friends, and priests. This practice not only helps her cope but also fosters a sense of community and connection with others who may be suffering.
Practical Steps to Embrace Suffering
So, what can we do when we’re in the thick of suffering? Here are a few practical steps:
- Acknowledge Your Pain: Be honest with yourself and with God about what you're feeling. It’s okay to say, “I’m scared” or “I’m hurting.”
- Turn to Prayer: Just as Jesus did in His anguish, we can turn our gaze toward the Father. Simple prayers like “Lord, help me” can open the door to His grace.
- Offer It Up: Consider offering your suffering for someone else. This can transform your pain into a source of grace for others.
The Role of Community
It’s also essential to reach out to others. Just like Jesus asked His friends to pray with Him in the garden, we too need to lean on our community. Sharing our burdens with friends or family can lighten our load and remind us that we are not alone in our suffering.
As Megan beautifully stated, “When we are in our anguish, suffering itself is truly evil, but when we unite it to Christ, it becomes filled with His love and presence.” By accepting our sufferings and offering them to God, we allow Him to work through us and bring about redemption.
Conclusion: The Gift of Suffering
Ultimately, suffering is a part of the human experience, and while it’s difficult, it can lead to profound spiritual growth. As we enter deeper into Lent, let’s remember that our sufferings are not in vain. They can be redemptive and transformative, both for ourselves and for others.
If you’re looking for more guidance on this journey, I highly recommend checking out Megan's book, Offer It Up: Discovering the Power and Purpose of Redemptive Suffering. It’s a beautiful resource for anyone wanting to embrace their suffering and find meaning in it.
Thank you for joining us in this conversation today. Remember, you are not alone in your suffering. God is with you, and He is working all things for your good. Let’s continue to lift each other up in prayer and support one another on this journey of faith.
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