why we get sick

Today in the One Year Bible, we read from Mark 1:29-2:12. Jesus heals Peter's mother in law. And the whole healing ministry of Jesus raises the question of disease altogether. Why are there diseases?

You might say, "because germs and bacteria and viruses infect our bodies and make us sick." But that's HOW there are diseases. The question of WHY there are diseases is different.

And I think we can gain insight into that philosophical and theological question by remembering the passage where the disciples asked Jesus if the men who were born blind were that way because of their own sin or the sins of their parents. And what did Jesus say? "Neither. But that God might be glorified."

That brings us to our lives today. Why do we suffer? Why do we get sick? Why doesn't God just snap His fingers and make illness go away? We get sick, most of all, so that God will be glorified. When He heals us? Maybe. When He uses our illness to teach us patience and empathy? Perhaps. When He draws us to Himself to be with Him for eternity? Could be.

But there is a reason - a GOOD reason - for our sickness. Next time you're ill, including now if you happen to be sick at present - lift your suffering up to Him. See what He does with it. And you'll see that it's for Him to be glorified.

God, thanks for giving us reasons for our suffering.