The Scourging at the Pillar

In the Letter to the Hebrews Paul reminds us:  My son, when the Lord corrects you, do not treat it lightly; but do not get discouraged when he reprimands you. For the Lord trains the ones that he loves through suffering. Suffering is part of your training; God is treating you as his sons.

This was surely true of His own Son, his Beloved Son, when he was scourged during his passion.

So too with us. God allows us to suffer physical pain, but God can turn all things to good for those who love him. In fact, God allows suffering for four good reasons, so that we can

1.  Regain mastery over our bodies after our sinful self-indulgence

2.  Reorient our minds towards the next life

3.  Assist in the salvation of souls and the building up of the Church

4.  And receive a crown of glory with Christ for all eternity.