For even when we came into Macedonia, our bodies had no rest, but we were afflicted at every turn—fighting without and fear within. But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus. 2 Cor. 7:5-6
Dear heavenly Father, this brief vignette from Paul’s life comes to me today like a well-timed kiss from heaven; like a call from the right friend when you least expected it but most needed it; like the first sign of daylight after a starless, stormy night.
First of all, Father, I praise you for chronicling Paul’s experience of being restless, fearful, and downcast. Many times I suffer from “should-ness”: If I really loved you, if I were more full of the Holy Spirit, if I truly got the gospel, I shouldn’t ever feel downcast; I should feel upbeat—on top of my game. I shouldn’t feel the “blues”; I should only dance a jig.
It’s comforting to know the gospel doesn’t make me less human, but simply more yours. Thank you for being a Father who doesn’t shame the downcast. You pursue them, you provide for them, you comfort them—you comfort me.
As I begin this day, I feel like I’m swimming in a pool of baby piranha—no big sharks like Paul was dealing with, just small piranha nibbling at my spirit. I’m surrounded by a lot of little decisions, little needs, a small conflicts, little projects—a lot of little things and annoying people over which I have no control, and the combination of these things is zapping my “mojo” and weighing me down.
But, Father, I’m not going to get preoccupied with piranha swatting; I’ll just look to you and for you. It’s so good to know you’re running toward me in the gospel right now, not with a furrowed brow but with a compassionate heart; not bristling with impatience, but with everlasting kindness; not rolling your eyes, but opening your arms.
And as you comfort me, I will seek to be a Titus for others. What a privilege it is to comfort others with the very comfort you bring to us in all our troubles (2 Cor. 1:3-4). What a joy it is to do life in Christ, standing in grace. So very Amen I pray, in Jesus’ merciful name, with great anticipation.