“All praise to the God and Father of our Master, Jesus the Messiah! Father of all mercy! God of all healing counsel! He comes alongside us when we go through hard times, and before you know it, he brings us alongside someone else who is going through hard times so that we can be there for that person just as God was there for us. We have plenty of hard times that come from following the Messiah, but no more so than the good times of his healing comfort—we get a full measure of that, too.”
– 2 Corinthians 1:3-5
(The Message Bible)
We live in a world of pain and suffering. Certainly, at some point in life you have asked the question or heard others ask ‘why is there so much suffering in the world?’ This question is often considered when there is the presence of a world crisis, family or health crisis, etc. In fact, Lee Strobel, author of The Case for Faith (Zondervan, Sept. 2000) asked George Barna of the Barna Group to conduct a national survey in which he asked a scientifically selected cross-section of adults: “If you could ask God only one question and you knew He would give you an answer, what would you ask?” The top response, offered by 17 percent, was “Why is there pain and suffering in the world?” This question has been on the minds of people for centuries. It has been argued by philosophers and great theologians and theorized by many skeptics.
The bottom line is when people are suffering a health or family crisis, this is personal and an extremely emotional time; and not the time for an academic question or a theory. During times like these, believers are called to seize the divinely ordained moment by using earthly pain to redirect the sufferer’s focus to eternal matters and providing love and comfort by gently speaking the gospel.
2 Corinthians 1:3-5 is a reminder God is the God of all comfort. The word “comfort” used here derives from the Greek word “paraklēsis.” It denotes empathy or encouragement. As Paul turns to the everyday problems of life, Paul emphasizes as God comforts us, God expects us to comfort others who may be troubled or in trouble. God’s comfort is to be transferable and intended to be shared. In other words, believers are called to be empathetic and loving as we point people to their only source of true comfort, Jesus the Christ. When someone is experiencing the pain of an illness, a recent diagnosis of cancer, an incapacitating injury or some other illness; or someone is mourning the loss of a loved one, what better display of the love of Christ than when a believer comes alongside and offers prayer, support, comfort and the hope of the gospel?
Beloved, even though we have come to the end of September and Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, let’s commit to continue to bring awareness to this serious issue.
If you or someone you know have questions regarding prostate cancer, talk to your health care professional or call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345 or use their Live Chat feature for assistance for cancer- related information and referrals, patient-related programs or resources. at https://www.cancer.org/about-us/online-help/contact-us.html
Next Month: Put On A Smiley Face☺
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2020
GENERAL AND PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION
BE SURE TO VOTE!
IF YOU ARE VOTING BY MAIL, REQUEST YOUR BALLOT NOW!
General Disclaimer: The writer has used her best efforts in preparation of this information. No representations or warranties for its contents, either expressed or implied, are offered. Neither the publisher nor the writer shall be liable in any way for readers’ efforts to apply, rely or utilize the information or recommendations presented herein as they may not be suitable for you or necessarily appropriate for every situation to which they may refer. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your medical doctor or health care provider. You are encouraged to discuss with your doctor any questions or concerns you may have concerning prostate cancer, its risk factors, symptoms and treatment. If you would like to contact Rev. Lester, write to her c/o P.O. Box 121, Brookfield, WI. 53008.
