For even 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
Loving Father, this brief, honest vignette from Paul’s life arrives at the front door of my heart like an old friend bearing fresh encouragement; like an unexpected gift-basket, filled with fruit and chocolate; like a cool breeze at the end of a humid day; like a crackling fire at the beginning of a cold day; like a kiss from heaven.
First of all, Father, I praise you for chronicling Paul’s experience of being restless, fearful, and downcast. Thankfully, the picture of true spirituality recorded in your Word contradicts many graceless notions to which I can default. Sometimes I suffer from “should-ness”: if I really loved you, if I were more full of the Holy Spirit, if I truly got the gospel, I should never feel downcast. I should only feel upbeat and on top of my game; more than a conqueror and never less than a victor.
It’s comforting to know the gospel doesn’t make me less human, but simply more yours. Thank you for being a Father who doesn’t shame the downcast, weary or restless. You pursue them, you provide for them, you comfort them—you comfort me.
As I begin this day, I feel like I’m swimming in an aquarium of hungry little fish—no sharks, giant squid or poison jellyfish, like Paul was dealing with, just a school of relentless minnows nibbling at my spirit in a feeding frenzy. There’s a lot of little decisions, a lot of little needs, a lot of small conflicts, a lot of unfinished projects, a lot of unreturned calls; and a lot of other little things over which I have no control—things for which I have no energy, heart or patience. The combination of these things is weighing me down.
But I’ll not swat the minnows, I’ll just look for you in the waters. Indeed, Father, it’s so good to know you’re running toward me in the gospel right now—not with a furrowed brow but with a compassionate and merciful heart. You are the God who beckons to me, “Cast all your care on me, for I care for you.” You are the Lord who lovingly commands, “Don’t be anxious for anything, but in everything, bring your requests to me.” You are my Father who promises to give me sufficient grace. Hallelujah, the gospel is true.
And as you comfort me, I’ll seek to be a Titus to others. What a privilege it is to comfort others with the very comfort you bring to us in all our troubles, that they might share the same fresh grace with others (2 Cor. 1:3-4). O how awesome the domino effect of the gospel really is. So very Amen I pray in Jesus’ name, with great anticipation.