Question

In his commentary on the Book of Job, Michael D. Guinan states: "Problems are solved. Mysteries are lived." (Guinan, Michael D. Job. Collegeville Bible Commentary, Vol. 19. Collegeville, MN: The Order of St Benedict, 1986, p. 80) How do the Book of Job, Lamentations, and the Gospel of Mark argue that suffering is a mystery?

Answer 1

The Book of Job, Lamentations, and the Gospel of Mark portrays meaning to suffering. Suffering makes the believers to stay close to their Creator. In the Book of Job, Job is tested by Satan due to his faith and love towards his creator, because of which he suffers, but these sufferings give him more understanding of the love of the Creator and his care towards him. In the Book of Lamentations, people suffer due to their disobediences and rebellion, still the Creator loves them and wants his children to get back to him. Similarly, in the Book of Mark, Christ's suffering is depicted. It is his suffering through the way to cross and at the cross that brings redemption to humanity. Thus, sufferings in all the three Book's have deep meanings and purposes of the Creator. They are not to punish humans but are to keep them closer to the Maker. This purpose of suffering is a mystery.