“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
Gracious Father, this record of a restless, wary, downcast Paul is a gift to us. Even your most faithful servants—those who love you deeply and “get” the Gospel much better than us, even these men and women experience fear, weakness, and downcast-ness. We are grateful the Gospel frees us to be more human, not less.
Father, thank you for comforting us when we have the blues, blahs, and befuddlement. You don’t roll your eyes at us; you keep your eye on us, just like you do sparrows (Matt.6:26). You are “the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort” (2 Cor. 1:3).
Though you have a record of sending ravens and rainbows, manna from the sky or miracles in the night to care for your children, more often you send a Titus or a Phoebe (2Cor.7:6; Rom.16:1). You call us—your daughters and sons, to bear each other’s burdens. We don’t have to be awesome, just available, because you are the one who does the “heavy lifting” of lifting hearts.
So, Father, help us be honest about our struggles, expectant of your comfort, and receptive of your provision. It may come from unexpected sources. Keep us “dialed in” to the needs of others around us. To whom would you extend your heart and hand today through us? So Very Amen.