I have a confession to make. I don’t sleep under the sheets. Just the comforter. All I need is my comforter (the big blanket on top). I don’t like my feet ‘trapped’ inside a sheet tucked in at the bottom of a bed. But this post is about a different kind of Comforter! As a pastor, I am often beside families who suffer the loss of a love one. Their grief can be profound and last a long time. I do my best to offer human understanding and comfort for sure. But, I know that God promises a comfort that can turn the sting of pain and loss to sincere appreciation for the time once shared and anticipation of the life to come for those in Christ Jesus. Once someone has received such comfort from God, they themselves become bearers of His comfort to others. How wonderful it is that the church is filled with so many comfort-bearers. Let’s remember to use the gift of God’s comfort not just for ourselves by others as well.
All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NLT
How often has God been my great comforter? How sensitive am I to the needs of others? Who could I point toward God today?
God, as this day begins- I do thank You for all the times You’ve offered me the comfort that comes from Your presence in my life, response to prayers, and care from Your people. May I be one available to others to be Your comfort-bearer today. As the Jose family and Virden families hold ceremonies for their beloved “Cliff” and “Richard”, may I be a source that weeps with them and encourages them by reminding us all we have the hope of a heavenly reunion.
