For the Lord has comforted his people. He has redeemed Jerusalem. Isaiah 52:9  

The darkness is passing away and the true light is already shining. I John 2:8  

Comfort is something we all want and seek out. On these latest nice cool mornings we can seek comfort under lovely warm blankets. The week before had a very hot day when air conditioners were a comfort.  There are so many times in our lives where we are in need of comfort. What are things that comfort you? Maybe snuggly puppies or kittens? There are always comfort foods we turn to in times of stress and worry, things like chocolate and chamomile tea. Friends are also a source of comfort as we join together in grief at a funeral, and pray for and with others during an illness.   

Isaiah says that the Lord has comforted the people of Israel. In the midst of the destruction of Jerusalem, he knows that the Lord is there to comfort everyone. This comfort comes in the form of redemption – note the end of the verse, God comforts His people by redeeming them. By freeing and saving them. By freeing them to love one another as children of God.   

We too are comforted by the redemption we have from God through our savior, Jesus Christ. We are in a world that often seems to be one of darkness. However, in the life and example of Jesus, this darkness is going away. John writes that this is a New Commandment – not the others are gone – but that the new message of the Gospel is now present. The darkness is no longer all that we see. Even at the time when things look the darkest, the true light is already shining. We have this true light, the love and grace of God. He created us, He formed us. He called us by name and said we are His.   

Lord, thank you for your light that illuminates our once darkened world. When our hearts are weighed down with cares and grief and worries give us the comfort that only you can give. According to your will, bring us closer to you every day. May our faith in you always lead to works of love that mirror your own. Amen.  

Chris Gabel 

Ministries
Teaching Mission Party