“They shall obtain gladness and joy; and sorrow and mourning shall flee away. I, even I, am He that comforts you” (Isaiah 51:11, 12).
We met three visitors who attended the service at the church where Pastor Kenward served. Judy came with sorrow because her fiancé had rejected her. Edward was filled with sorrow over his sinful actions. He appreciated his employer not pressing charges, but he nonetheless had been fired. Richard wouldn’t even come into the worship center. He stood at the main section of doors, and tears flowed pretty much the entire length of the service. That week his son had been diagnosed with cancer. There are several lessons for each of us today. First, none of us will get through a lifetime without sorrow. Second, those who know Christ as Savior belong to the great Comforter. Third, there is a day coming when all sorrow and mourning will flee as gladness and joy will be ours. There is a fourth and important lesson for those of us who know the Lord. Probably sometime today we will encounter people just like Judy, Edward, and Richard. May we be sensitive and encouraging.
For today: A great day is coming when the Lord and His people together will know joy and gladness. Until then, I am thankful for His comfort. How about you?