Comfort, comfort my people, says your God.
— Isaiah 40:1
In today’s devotional reading the prophet declares that he and his brethren have a direct mission from God to “comfort” Israel. in the expressions, “my people,” and “your God.” Israel is not cast off, even when most deeply afflicted. Each of us needs a healthy dose of comfort from time to time.
Compassion starts with a willingness to see someone else’s pain. Rather than looking away, denying the pain, or choosing to ignore it, we acknowledge the person’s experience. This acknowledgment makes us feel less alone in our suffering.
Everyone in this world is fighting their own battle, so you should never miss a chance to be kind and shower warmth and love to everyone. So, if everyone was empathetic how might things change in the world for the good.
Thank God that there is good news in Isaiah’s song. God himself says, “Comfort, comfort my people. . . . Speak tenderly. . . .”
When we need comfort, we must remember, first, that God is the Sovereign Lord. He will meet us in every situation with his powerful arm. As an old hymn puts it, “Oh, let me not forget that, though the wrong seems so strong, God is the Ruler yet.” Never forget it! This is our Father’s world.
Second, our Father is a loving, compassionate God. No matter what adversities you may be going through today, you can take comfort. Like a shepherd with his sheep, God carries us close to his heart. Remember Jesus’ parting words: “I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20).
Thank you, Lord, that you are our powerful God of comfort. Even as you carry us close to your heart, so too may we joyfully carry each other’s burdens as we live for you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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