On bad luck: Job and jesus

Abstract

I reflect on certain random events that befall us and to those we love, random events we never would have chosen because of the pain and suffering they involve. A distinction is drawn between the bad luck of physical assaults, such as genetic defects and the bad luck growing out of value conflicts. Illuminated by the writings of two philosophers- Wilcox and Wolterstorff-I examine the story of Job's maturing response to bad luck. I conclude with some reflections on Christ's response to pain and suffering and its implications for our response to bad luck.