Even the most faithful can be challenged by the death of loved ones. I, along with many others across the world, were surprised when letters written by Mother Teresa of Calcutta revealed that even she doubted her spiritual faith at times, having witnessed so much pain and suffering throughout her long life. Yet it is those very doubts that reaffirms the very human nature of Mother Theresa and also bears witness to the great strength of her faith as she persevered to alleviate the suffering of others, despite her own spiritual struggles.
Having one’s faith challenged by a devastating loss seems a natural response to human events that brings great pain and unanswerable questions. It’s okay to experience anger at God, because those human emotions are real and valid. And there is comfort knowing that God understands anger and doubts because He created them as a part of spiritual growth, and most surely expects them.
In the end it is reconciliation, one way or the other, that really matters. Perhaps your spiritual faith will be diminished your faith in the face of adversity, or perhaps it will be strengthened as you persevere in the face of adversity, as Mother Theresa did.
Spiritual challenges and doubts have surely affected humankind since the beginning of time, and it’s doubt that often leads to spiritual growth, and peace. To doubt one’s spiritual faith and experience anger during life’s painful events is human nature.
