A Tender Comforter

As one whom his mother comforts, so I will comfort you. Isaiah 66:13a

I love how God will often use an example we understand in order to help us comprehend His truths. Sometimes He will compare Himself to a father, a shepherd, a potter, a teacher, a friend, a king, or any number of individuals. Each one displays God’s role in our life and how He interacts with us. When He chooses aspects of a mother we are able to see His heart of tenderness. For those of us who had mothers who comforted us in times of need, this verse will touch us in significant ways. It is hard to imagine a mother who never offered comfort to her child. If that is the case for some, they may need to think of another person of comfort in their life to help this verse make sense. But whatever the case may be most people can picture the scene of a mother comforting a child.

I find it interesting that when a child is hurting and comes to his mother she instinctively puts her arms around him and begins to speak in hushed tones. Her body language and voice are meant to sooth him and ease the pain. Like those magical kisses that are meant to make his sore spot feel better, a mother’s hug and gentle words reach his spirit.

God wants us to see that He stands ready, willing, and able to do that for us as well. He longs for us to come to Him for comfort. He sees our tears, knows our place of pain, hears our cries, and is aware of what has brought it all on. Whether it is due to loss, hardship, disappointment, or even consequences for wrong doing, He always extends His offer of comfort.

When I am hurting (for whatever reason) the things I desire are alleviation of my grief, loss, or trouble, to receive strength and hope, to once again have a sense of well being, and to be soothed. I want to know that the one comforting me can understand how I am feeling. Their empathy and compassion will usually be in proportion to their own experience with pain and their measure of love for me. Since Jesus experienced more suffering in this world than I will ever personally know for myself and because He loves me with an everlasting love who better to seek comfort from?

Father, I know my tears are precious to You. And while friends will certainly be used by You to comfort me in many ways, it is You I desire now. Amen.