Comforting Spirit

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and the God of all consolation, who consoles us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to console those who are in any affliction with the consolation with which we ourselves are consoled by God. For just as the sufferings of Christ are abundant for us, so also our consolation is abundant through Christ.    2 Corinthians 1:3-5 (New Revised Standard Version)

This verse is often used in funeral services. In 3 short verses, a form of “console” is used 6 times – a safe
bet that it’s a key point. Coming from the Latin meaning to soothe, Merriam-Webster defines it as “to alleviate
the grief, sense of loss or trouble of.” As we move into Advent, I think of the many people who will not be
present at our holidays this year for many reasons. There is, and will be, such a sense of grief and loss – visible
and invisible.

And yet we, as Jesus People, are not alone. Our Triune God comes to us to console and soothe and
accompany us in and through it all. We are given Hope. The Hope of Advent as we await our Lord’s return. The
Hope of the resurrection, knowing that death is not the last word. As abundant were Christ’s sufferings,
equally abundant is our consolation. And we are to share that consolation with others, being Christ to them.
In the midst of all that the holidays bring, may the Comforting Spirit surround your Advent journey
abundantly with the Hope of Christ our Lord. May you share that Hope with others and may you experience
Peace.

Prayer: Merciful Father, Hope-giving Savior and Comforting Spirit, be with us. Console us who grieve, who do
not feel the joy or excitement of Advent and Christmas, who just are trying to get through another day. Help us
to see others who are hurting and use us to console them. Let us experience your presence, your Hope,
always. Amen.

Amy – Leadership Team: Inspire. Ignite. Invite.
Elkhart, IN