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 “When we came into Macedonia, our bodies had no rest, but we were afflicted at every turn… fighting without and fear within. But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus. 2 Cor. 7:5-6

 

Gracious Father, this record of a tired, and “out-of-gas” Paul being comforted by a good friend greatly encourages us. Many, like me, woke up today on the “blah-ish” and  “weary-ish”” side of things. Your Word reminds us that even your most faithful servants—those who love you deeply and “get” the Gospel much better than us—even these men and women experience restlessness, vulnerability, and fear. Hallelujah, the Gospel frees us to be more human—not Superman or Wonder Woman.

Indeed, Father, thank you for comforting us when we are downcast. You don’t deride, chide, or hide from us. You comfort us. You’re “the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort” (2 Cor. 1:3). And thank you for the comforters you send us.

Though you’re quite capable of sending ravens and rainbows, manna from the sky or miracles in the night, more often you send a Titus or a Phoebe (2 Cor. 7:6; Rom. 16:1). You call us to bear each other’s burdens, not fix each other’s brokenness.

So, help us be honest about our hearts, expectant of your comfort, and thankful for your provision. And make us sensitive to the needs of others around us. We are usually more helpful to others in our weakness than in our “all-together-ness.” Point us towards other weary travelers who need an unrushed moment, a simple call, or a kind word today. So Very Amen.

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