Completing Christ's Suffering

In Colossians 1:24, Paul says that through his sufferings he is filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions. What does that mean? At first glance this seems to run counter to what we know about the sufficiency of Jesus' death on the cross. However, as we look deeper, we will find that what he says is intended to get us to understand the intimate connection between Christ and His church. This message brings us comfort and allows us to suffer with joy, just like Paul.