Wednesday, April 30

By Julie Conway-Sword of Gainesville, Florida, USA

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and the God of all consolation, who consoles us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to console those who are in any affliction with the consolation with which we ourselves are consoled by God.

—2 Corinthians 1:3–4 NRSV

When my husband, Walter, passed away, I thought I was beyond comfort and solace. I did not want to enter my empty home, eat, or do anything without Walter. I had never lived alone, and I felt bereft and forsaken. My good neighbors, friends, and relatives rescued me.

They prayed with me, took me to lunch, listened to me talk, and let me cry until I rejoiced in the compassionate comfort of God. The comfort came in the form of those whom God sent—earthly angels. I thought, “By the grace of God I’ve made it through the first year—I think I can do this.”

In the following years, there have been many friends in need with whom I have sat, hugged, listened, cried, and prayed. The same comfort and compassion the Lord shared with me, I can pass on to others. Is this one purpose of our lives here on Earth? Once we experience comfort, we understand and can pass on that same solace and spirit of consolation.

Prayer for Peace

As you love us, God, help us love others. As we are forgiven, welcomed, and greeted with peace, may we share these parts of peace with others.

Spiritual Practice: Examining God’s Call to Me and to All

Reflect on God’s call in your life. Begin by prayerfully asking to recall particular moments when you have experienced God’s presence and invitation. Write in your journal or quietly reflect on images and insights that come.

When has God seemed most real in your life? How and when has God called you to use your energies and gifts? When have you felt God’s love in your life? When have you felt disconnected or resistant to God’s call? How do your gifts and callings connect with the call of God you notice in your family, friends, congregation, or community?

Peace Covenant

Today, God, I will ponder your blessings to me, and use them to bless others.