Peace: Week Two – Day One
Comfort, O Comfort my people, says your God. – Isaiah 40:1 (NRSV)
This passage is spoken over the people of Israel at the end of their exile. Is read in God’s own voice, and He is calling out to Israel to give them comfort at the end of their trial. It’s an important verse in the book of Isaiah because it presents a huge shift in the message of the book. In fact, some people call the following few chapters the “Book of Comfort” because the tone is one of support and encouragement.
When you think of the word “comfort,” what images come into your mind? Maybe you think about a warm, safe blanket on a cold, rainy night. Maybe you imagine a good hug from a dear friend that you received just at the right moment.
There are lots of things we use to inspire comfort during this time of year. Hot cocoa in a good mug after a long day. Bright lights on our homes when the night lasts so long. Bells that spark music when we least expect it.
The Christmas season is definitely a time when we need comfort; comfort food, comforting friends, and comfortable clothes on those cold winter nights. You, or those close to you, might need a little extra comfort during this season, especially when we remember all the people who cannot celebrate this season with us.
Today, take time to reflect on the images of comfort which surround you. Candles, hugs, and Christmas cards are full of warm wishes and messages of comfort. Resist the urge to get caught up in the stress and materialism of our world. Embrace the Sabbath rest of God. Find your favorite image of comfort and put it in a prominent place. Put a candle on your desk at home or a Christmas card on your bathroom mirror. God wants you to enjoy His comfort this season, and if you get the chance, offer someone else a little comfort too!
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