The Ultimate Comforter

I mentioned yesterday, as Pastor shared the tragic news of a family situation within our congregation, that you could tell, even for a moment, he hesitated, as if at a loss for words and support.

I certainly understand the dilemna, as the scenario that played through my mind this past Friday of "what if" tragedy struck my family... how would I respond? How would my friends and family support me? The situation would grieve and affect their lives directly... how would I support them as they worked through such great loss? We would need each other, yet we would need our own space and time. 

Healing comes through community,  yes.
More importantly, healing comes through communion with God.

Upon Christ's ascension, after the resurrection, He did not promise that He would send us understanding for what we would endure. He promised to send the Comforter.

We like to think we have it all together... that we understand and know how it all plays out. And we just might; for a minute. Perhaps even a moment. But it's a solitary falling star in a galaxy beyond our comprehension, full of the majestic sovereignty of God.

I certainly don't have a clue. Yet, I know that doesn't and shouldn't prevent from being a support to those in need when I have opportunity to do so... even when I am at a loss for words, time or resources. While each struggle may be difficult, God is still able to use us to help others through their struggles, if we would take the moment we think we have it all together and invest it in helping someone else keep it together.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, that the Holy Spirit would strengthen and comfort them during the difficulties and challenges they face. May they continue to be open to be used by God to support, encourage and uplift Senior Pastors and others they serve with in ministry, despite whatever may be going on directly in their own lives. Pray they would not become so downtrodden and discouraged that the miss opportunities for God to accomplish the miraculous; even if they are at a loss for words or don't seem to be the help that is needed or desired. May God honor the faith of the friends who come along side, to be ministers of grace and love, as they pray the Holy Spirit to do what He was sent to accomplish...

Comfort;
With peace that surpasses all understanding.
Trust in the Lord,
Even when life falls apart.
For God is in control, with a divine plan.
Beauty from ashes, for His Glory.

- PNC

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