A paradox is a statement that contradicts itself, or a situation which seems to defy logic. Jesus presented a paradox when he declared, “Whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it.” (Mark 8:35) Actually, authentic Christianity, as defined by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5, is filled with paradoxes. Jesus tells the crows that the poor will inherit the riches of heaven, that those who mourn will be comforted, and that it is a blessing to be persecuted.

These paradoxes can be hard to understand, but perhaps the most difficult paradox in the Bible is the one Paul presents in Romans 5. Paul suggests, in his letter to the Romans, that we are to find joy in suffering. At first glance, it’s hard to take in. It seems to be foolish and nonsensical. But, of course, it’s not impossible. The process of suffering has the potential to change us for the better. Paul says, “We also have joy with our troubles, because we know that these troubles produce patience. And patience produces character, and character produces hope.” (Romans 5:3-4)

Despite his challenges in life, Paul seemed to understand the power of God’s grace, which provides peace with God. The suffering of Jesus produced peace, and our suffering produces hope. Hope is future-looking faith in what God will do. Then, that masterpiece of hope in what God will do is cultivated in us, through suffering.

As we continue our series on holiness in 2020, our prayer is that God will develop within us ‘contagious holiness.’ That is, that we will be so set apart for God’s love that others can’t help but feel the impact. Together, we walk through our suffering and grow in the grace of God. This is our hope.