Suffering and pain touch everyone. At times life seems like an endless cycle of hopelessness. Even Christians, who claim that Jesus is the source of hope amidst the struggles, still suffer. They still struggle. They still die. So, what’s the point? What difference does Jesus make?

First, look at the brokenness that invades your life—those things that cause guilt, shame, and grief. They exist because of a condition called sin—sin separates you from God and robs you of the peace, comfort and hope you desperately crave. And no matter how hard you try, there isn’t anything you can do to make things right again on your own. That’s where Jesus comes in.

Jesus knows the misery you feel. Jesus makes the difference at that very point—when your pain intersects your cry for help. Jesus is God’s answer to that cry.

Jesus took the punishment you deserve. He died in your place so that you can be forgiven. Because you are forgiven, you can have the comfort of knowing you are at peace with God and the certainty that He provides you with the strength to cope with guilt, shame and grief.

And because of what Jesus has done for you, your past is forgiven, your present can be lived with confidence, and your future is guaranteed.

For all who believe in Jesus, an everlasting world—without suffering, sin and death—is assured. This glorious place called heaven is where you will see Jesus face to face.

That’s the difference Jesus makes.