From Dinosaurs to Suffering, 6 Questions Clergy Hear Most

Hello friends, from the existence of dinosaurs to the mystery of suffering, I answer the 6 most frequently asked questions to Christian clergy. I’m happy to share the biblical verses and theological insights that help bridge the gap between faith and our world.

WHY DOES A GOOD GOD ALLOW SUFFERING?

When tragedy strikes, people want to know how an all-powerful, loving Creator can permit pain.  God created a world with free will, which allows for both genuine love and the possibility of evil. God does not always stop suffering. He promises to be present within it. Even the darkest moments are used to bring about ultimate healing and transformation. “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”  Psalm 34:18

CAN I REALLY BE FORGIVEN FOR MY PAST?

Yes absolutely! The Gospel is built on the foundation that no one is beyond the reach of God’s mercy if they seek it with a sincere heart. Many people carry “secret sins” or deep regrets, fearing they have finally crossed a line that God won’t overlook. But there is no expiration date on grace, and no mistake is larger than God’s capacity to forgive a heart that truly seeks to change. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9

HOW DO I KNOW WHAT GOD’S WILL IS FOR MY LIFE?

God’s “will” is more about your character. If you are seeking to love others, act with integrity, and walk in faith, you are already in God’s will. The specific paths (jobs, moves, relationships, life changes) usually open naturally as you live out those values. “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” Psalm 119:105

WHAT HAPPENS TO MY LOVED ONES AFTER THEY DIE?

People seek comfort and a concrete vision of the afterlife, wondering if they will see their loved ones (this includes their fur babes) again. Especially in their time of grief. The Bible promises, for those who are faithful in Christ, death is not an end but a transition. A literal reunion in a place where “all things are made new,” free from the physical and emotional pain of this world. “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” Revelation 21:4

IS THE BIBLE STILL RELEVANT IN TODAY’S WORLD?

Yes, without a doubt. Technology and culture will continue changing, the human condition doesn’t. We will still struggle with fear, greed, love, and purpose. If we think of the Bible as an “owner’s manual” for the human soul (smile). It provides us with timeless wisdom while the context of the world changes, the nature of humanity and the truth of God remain constant. “The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.”  Isaiah 40:8

WHAT ABOUT THE DINOSAURS?

Dinosaurs were a magnificent part of God’s creation that lived and died long before the time of Jesus. The Bible is a theological history of God’s relationship with humanity. To an eternal God, time doesn’t move like it does for us, and the “days of creation” in Genesis is looked upon as a vast period of time. Which means there is no conflict between the fossil record and the belief that God is the creator of all life.  “But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day.”  2 Peter 3:8

If you’re looking for a quick recap of this post, here are the core truths to remember.

I invite you to keep asking questions. Faith isn’t about having all the answers wrapped up in a neat little bow. It’s about the journey of seeking truth. Clergy members aren’t here to judge your curiosity. We are here to walk beside you and help when you need it.

• Suffering Isn’t Silence: God’s presence is often felt most clearly not in the absence of pain, but in the comfort found through it.
• Grace is Absolute: There is no “point of no return.” Forgiveness is a gift available to anyone with a sincere heart, regardless of their past.
• Purpose is Personal: Finding God’s will isn’t about solving a puzzle; it’s about growing your character and following the “light” you have today.
• Hope is Eternal: Death is a transition to a restored life, offering the promise of a reunion and an end to all suffering.
• Truth is Timeless: The Bible remains a relevant “roadmap” because while the world changes, the needs of the human heart stay the same.
• Faith and Science Coexist: You don’t have to choose between your faith and the fossil record. The vastness of God’s timeline easily accounts for the wonders of prehistoric life.

If you have a question that’s been weighing on your heart, I’m happy to help. (hug)

Thank you for spending time with me today.