Nicole,

 

I said a prayer for you.  I am so terribly sorry that you have had so much pain and suffering.  We don't have all the answers and I don't want to offer you cheap platitudes.  I share the following for whatever its worth. 

 

I once read about a woman who had likewise had many sorrows.  She went on a retreat and shared her experiences.  Afterwards, a nun told her, "God must love you very much."

 

For many years I was puzzled by the response.  It didn't make any sense to me.  Having suffered much myself, I finally think I am beginning to understand.  If you care, I recently wrote about this.  http://www.fivedoves.com/letters/march2013/bruceb323-1.htm

 

Regarding the four types of Christians, I think there are a few more you might think about adding to the list.  I'm thinking about the seven churches (types?) that John wrote to in Revelations.

 

You are so right about the faithful Christians in the Korean church.  I knew some Koreans in seminary and can vouch for their beautiful faith.  They make me feel humbled.

 

We long to go home.  When we get there we'll know why we had such suffering on earth, but ... maybe then we won't even care.

 

YBIC

Bruce Baber