Day 36: Comforted To Give Comfort

“Misery loves company” tends to be one of those phrases we utter sarcastically. Perhaps we say it in the hope that our present dismal circumstances might be alleviated somewhat by the presence of other humans who find themselves in the same ugly predicament. For example, picture the disgruntled crowd at the airport gate having just learned their cross-country flight has been delayed by two hours. Ugh. Or consider the relief you feel when you learn everyone else in the class is just as confused by the study guide as you are.

Well, as true as that sentiment might be, I think Paul has something a little different in mind with the opening words of his second letter to the church at Corinth. Paul reminds us that "...the God of all comfort...comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God" (cf. 2 Cor. 1: 3-4). Did you catch it? The comfort God lavishes on each of individually is meant to be shared! One of the most profound ways we build community in Jesus' name is by bearing one another's burdens and extending mercy and compassion to those in distress.

So while misery might love company, meaningful community is created through our care of one another.

Questions to Consider:
What is it like for you to receive comfort from God? How do you experience His compassion? Is there someone in your community who is need of comfort these days? How can you extend mercy and understanding to him/her?

Prayer:
Merciful Savior, your comfort blesses my soul. Thank you for being a God who cares so deeply. Show me how to share your compassion with those around me.

By Chrystal Helmcke