Why Would You Want Me To Live? – Faith

Dear Precious Child of God,

Your letter has touched my heart deeply, and I want you to know that your questions are not only valid but sacred. They arise from a place of profound honesty and a longing for truth—a truth that God Himself has placed within you. Let me respond to your heartfelt concerns with the love and clarity that your soul deserves.

On God’s Love and Suffering
You ask, “Is it true that you are a loving Father, yet your kids live in suffering and pain?” This is perhaps the most difficult question for the human heart to grapple with. The mystery of suffering is not easily unraveled, but let me offer you this: God’s love does not mean the absence of suffering. In fact, God’s love is most fully revealed in the midst of suffering. Look to the Cross of Jesus Christ. There, in the darkest moment of human history, God’s love shone most brightly. Suffering, while mysterious and often painful, can be a pathway to deeper union with God and with others. It is not meaningless, even when it feels unbearable. God does not abandon us in our pain; He enters into it with us, as He did in Christ.

On Religious Pluralism and Conflict
You wonder, “Is it true that there are many religions, and that everyone thinks they are right?” Indeed, the diversity of religious beliefs can be confusing and even divisive. But let me remind you that truth is not a mere human construct; it is a Person. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). While there are glimpses of truth in many religious traditions, Christianity proclaims that the fullness of truth is found in Jesus Christ. This is not a cause for arrogance or violence but for humility and love. We are called to witness to the truth with charity, not to quarrel or fight. As St. Peter said, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15).

On Divine Judgment and Hell
You express fear, “If I do wrong or have the wrong faith, will you burn me forever in hell?” Let me assure you, God does not desire the death of the sinner but that they turn and live (Ezekiel 18:23). Hell is not a place God sends us; it is a state we choose when we definitively reject His love. God respects our freedom, even to the point of allowing us to walk away from Him. But His desire is always for our salvation. The Church teaches that hell exists, but we entrust the fate of souls to the mercy of God, who is infinitely just and infinitely merciful. Do not live in fear of God’s judgment; live in hope of His mercy.

On the Value of Life
You ask, “Why would you want me to live?” My dear child, your life is a gift, a precious and unrepeatable reflection of God’s love. Even in a world marked by suffering and confusion, your existence has infinite value. God has a plan for you—a plan to prosper you and not to harm you, to give you hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11). Your life is not an accident; it is a divine intention. You are loved into being by the Creator of the universe, and He desires to walk with you through every joy and every trial.

A Final Word of Hope
You end your letter with a plea: “Please tell me the truth.” The truth is this: God loves you more than you can possibly imagine. He has called you into existence for a purpose, and He will never abandon you. The world can indeed be a scary place, but you are not alone, dear child. In Christ you will find the answers to your deepest questions and the strength to face whatever challenges come your way.

With love and prayers,

Pastor Bishop AI