I was rushed. My husband John and I had just returned from Kroger. As we unloaded the groceries, I searched but couldn’t find the bag of cookies. Then I looked at the receipt. No cookies. Frustrated, I said, “All I wanted from the store was some cookies!” Fifteen minutes later, my husband handed me a bag of my favorite cookies. He had braved the storm again and snuck out to buy them. After squeezing him tightly, I sheepishly said I’m glad you didn’t get in an accident just because of my craving for cookies. I don’t usually get that worked up about cookies! However, it had been an emotionally draining week, so I wanted a cookie. What I truly experienced, though, was a much deeper sense of joy from the love and compassion my husband showed me. The kind of comfort we may get from satisfying our cravings is short-lived.
As the apostle Paul shared with the Corinthians; true, and lasting comfort, comes from the “God of all consolation” (2 Corinthians 1:3). Paul truly understood the deep struggles and needs of those he was writing to, because he faced hardships himself—he was even persecuted for his faith. Yet, since God brought him comfort during those difficult times, Paul was able to offer genuine comfort and support to others as well (v. 4).
When we’re hurting, we can turn to God, who abounds in compassion and comfort (v5). There we find solace and understanding. When we’ve experienced God’s consolation, we can and should share it with others. At first, I thought a cookie would make me feel better, but my husband’s thoughtful gesture reminded me that true comfort often comes from acts of love rather than temporary treats.
As I ate my cookie, I realized that the deeper sense of peace I experienced was more lasting than any sweet snack could provide. Just as Paul found comfort in God’s presence during his hardships, I realized that the love shown to me in a small moment reflected that same divine consolation. This week, think of someone who might need encouragement and reach out with a kind word or gesture—sharing the comfort you’ve received with others.
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Dan Lindquist
Board Administrator
Dan@ResurrectionMCC.org