A river turning colors. An infestation of pests. Skin disease. Extreme weather events. These could be modern phenomena or plagues God brought upon Egypt. As I read this story this year, I am left wondering how we can understand God as the source of pain and suffering. In the story of the Exodus, God brings the plagues to convince Pharaoh to release the Israelites. Yet, imagining God as being responsible for our modern plagues deeply troubles me. I do not believe in a God that causes people to suffer. I do believe in a God who is present with us during our struggles. As we read the Ten Plagues, I invite each of us to embrace the Godliness of being present with those who are suffering.