Take a look around. Look at your neighbors, your co-workers, friends, family, the state, the country, the world. One of the most common struggles that I see is that of suffering. No matter where you are on this planet, there are people in our lives that are suffering. In some form, this should deeply effect us, as believers in the body of Christ. If suffering has not affected you in the past or now, all I would suggest is to check out the news; T.V., internet, newspapers.

The reason I bring this topic up is because as the fellowship of believers, we must do whatever we can to be there for those that are suffering. It has been heavy on my heart to write on this struggle. Being involved with the homeless community, the low-income housing projects, and society, I see this suffering going on everyday, in every direction I look.

For a long time I would look at these struggles, and justify it in my mind that it is their choice, their lifestyle, and it is what they want. When I realized that the world does not revolve around me, that is when I could see the deeper issues that where within the very hearts and minds of those suffering around me. So far, every person I have ever talked with that live on the streets, have told me stories and events that have brought to this point in their lives.

"Happiness is not a reward-it is a consequence. Suffering is not a punishment-it is a result." Robert Green Ingersoll

Much of the time, it was the choices that they made that brought them to this point. But it came only from one or several devastating events before that. At the same time, most of these people resort to some sort of pain killer. That can be alcohol or drugs or sex. Soon, this becomes a lifestyle, and there is a sense that the pain is no longer there.

I recently attended a conference called H.I.M. (Hawaiian Island Ministries). The theme of the conference was 'Many yet one'. This idea of being united as a church, really hit home for me. Looking at the struggle of suffering as a whole and trying to tackle on your own, is impossible. But, as the body around the world, with hearts of compassion and selflessness, and the struggle can change.

"For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us." Romans 8:18.