Comfort

                                                  by Aimee McNally (San Jose)

In my home, providing a comforting environment is one of my goals. I’m sure most people would like a home filled with peace, love, and comfort – especially after a hard day at work or school.  I have not always been successful at achieving this goal and have made mistakes along the way. A busy lifestyle, a cluttered home, and stress do not always allow for the extra time to think about comfort. However, providing comfort to others, whether emotional or physical, is a way to share the same comfort that God has given to me.

In 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, Paul wrote, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” When I call out to God for comfort and ask Him to relieve my emotional or physical pain, He fulfills His promise by turning my mourning into joy and by turning my spirit of heaviness into gladness. Sometimes He lifts that heaviness away just by the sight of a bird, the touch of a hand, or the laughter of my children. God comforts me immeasurably every day; “As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you” (Isaiah 66:13). In turn, as I’ve been comforted I should show comfort to others.

I have become more mindful of what comforts me as well as others. Physical comforts might include a cup of tea, home-baked cookies, a glass of wine, a bouquet of flowers, soothing music, soft cuddle blankets and pillows, the soft glow of candles, or a crackling fire. Emotional comforts might include an encouraging word, a hug, spending time with others, listening, praying for others in need, or sharing God’s scriptures. Both physical and emotional comforts help relieve pain and stress.

Providing a comforting environment or comfort to others in time of need is an opportunity to share the blessings of comfort which God has poured out upon me.