God's Abundant Comfort

"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted" (Matthew 5:4).

Just before our Lord's ascension He was deeply aware of His disciples' sadness at the prospect of His departure. They were stunned but Jesus understood man's need and He promised them a Helper, 

"I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Counselor to be with you forever – the Spirit of truth" (John 14:16-17). Sadness and sorrow are concrete realities. How well do we not know that! That is why these words spoken by the Lord are such a glorious comfort. He was indeed the Man of Sorrows, who was well acquainted with grief. Is there need or shortage in your home? Jesus didn't even have a place where He could lay His head (Luke 9:58). Have friends disappointed you? His friends betrayed Him (Luke 22:48 and 58). Do you battle with sorrow? In Gethsemane Jesus experienced such anguish that His sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground (Luke 22:39-46). Are you mourning the death of a loved one? Jesus cried at the grave of His friend Lazarus (John 11:35). Do you feel forsaken, even by God? On the cross Jesus wept because God had forsaken Him (Matthew 27:46). In the midst of our adversity, poverty, needs, cares and worries, Someone who understands and cares comes to us and says,"Blessed are those who mourn, because they will be comforted" (Matthew 5:4). Not far from Marah with its bitter water lies Elim with its twelve fountains and palm trees. Trust God to lead you from Marah to Elim by His understanding, loving grace.

Thank you, Lord, for the Helper You sent. What really matters is not what I have lost, but that You comfort me. Amen.

Solly Ozrovech