Our Response To 'Pain and Distress'

Called to pray for and comfort the afflicted

“I am in pain and distress; may your salvation, O God, protect me.” (Psalm 69:29)

“Praise God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! The Father is a merciful God, who always gives us comfort. He comforts us when we are in trouble, so that we can share that same comfort with others in trouble. We share in the terrible sufferings of Christ, but also in the wonderful comfort he gives.” (2 Corinthians 1: 3-5)

“For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair…" (2 Corinthians 4: 6-8)

It seems as if more friends, co-workers and family members than usual have been ill, hurt or otherwise “in pain and distress” lately. From diseases to car accidents to flu bugs, the maladies we face remind us just how fragile our bodies are, and just how precious each moment of life is. They also stir us to rally around those who are suffering, covering them with prayer and comfort and support. I am thankful for friends like Larry Yarborough, our YMCA chaplain, who embodies Christ’s compassion toward all, but especially toward the sick and suffering. His example of faithful, tireless service to the hurting inspires and challenges me to extend God’s comfort to others. After all, how often has the Lord used others to comfort me in times of pain and distress?

O Lord, God of comfort and compassion, Father of hope and healing, we thank you that when we are in pain and distress, you are faithful to protect us with your salvation. Open our eyes afresh, we pray, to see the suffering of others, and to lavish them with love and mercy as you have lavished it upon us. Amen.