So far this week, we have looked at purpose in suffering, the guidance of the Holy Spirit and losing our fear of death. In other words, God will figure everything out, working for good even when we don’t understand. We often wonder why someone lingers before death, why an elderly person, more than ready to go home to heaven, lives several more years, why a child has to suffer?

     God wants a relationship with each and every one of us. The people surrounding a tragedy or family members involved with someone who is suffering can be transformed through it all. These events prompt us to look up, to pray when we have never prayed before, to ask the deep and hard questions about life and death, to recognize the reality of a loving God.

     If someone you know is involved in a difficult situation, look around for blessings. Watch for God’s hand to move, wait for the right timing, for the perfect words, for the right people to show up. The Holy Spirit is often closest to us during these tough times. His presence can be felt. The prayers of others can lift us up. We are here for a reason, for a season. For such a time as this. (Esther 4:14)

     And when we experience the compassion and the comfort of Christ, we pass it on. We pay it forward. There is no greater gift on earth.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

     Read the verses above carefully. God comforts us and shows us compassion, “so that.”  There is a reason.  It is “so that” we can use that same comfort and compassion for those in “any” trouble! Bring the love, comfort and compassion of our Father in heaven, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort wherever you go. He will give us opportunities to pay it forward, all the way to heaven.

Father,

How can we thank You for the love, compassion and comfort we receive from You? This great love is meant to be shared. You can use us and we are privileged and honored to represent You and Your Son, Jesus.

Amen