2 Corinthians 1:3-4 – Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.

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When I am down and struggling, Paul is telling me that my solace, my ease, and my comfort is a priority for God. That gift of care and support comes directly from the Father God.  God is the source of compassion and is a part of His driven character. God is more than a being in a nebulous grey cloud with thunderbolts ready to strike me down at my low points. That is a good thing.  I hope that is true because sometimes I don’t feel much.  Especially in my own personal struggles.

OK, that is a great thought.  But hold on here: God now expects me to comfort, to deliver solace, care, and support to those who are also in trouble.  “Lord isn’t that your job?” If you are the source, who do I have to put myself out to help others?  Are you saying that my comfort is so full, so abundant that I have some to share? Are the things you provide to me for my peace and comfort so numerous that I have excess to distribute? That is crazy talk. There are times I don’t feel I have enough to get through the day.

Or is it that your plan requires an intermediary? You need me as an example and a conduit for comfort. You are the source, but I am a simple hollow pipe of distribution.  And in that, I can have peace. Open the spigot let it flow!