My Only Comfort
“Can I go to the store and get ice cream?”
“No.”
“But I want it!” This is the third time I’ve asked today. I’m seeing how childlike my desires are at times.
“Jack, you can’t. The whole point of social distancing it to stay home unless you need essential things.” I can imagine I’m starting to wear Nancy out.
“But this is essential! I just want to feel happy!” There it is. This isn’t just about ice cream, or cookies. It’s also about trying to feel happier. I’ll be the first to admit ice cream equals happiness. It’s really a brilliant formula in my mind, ice cream = happiness, and happiness = comfort. Who doesn’t want to feel more comfort right now The problem though is ice cream comfort doesn’t last long. Have you felt this way lately though? I just want to be happy? I want to feel comforted and just go back to the way things were?
I only know of two comforts that never change. The first is this: “that I am not my own, but belong – body and soul, in life and in death – to my faithful Savior, Jesus Christ” (Heidelberg Catechism Q. 1.) That’s nerd for, all we have ever have is Jesus. Which do you know what? I’m totally okay with. I’m putting my faith into the God of the Universe to give me hope and faith right now. He is loving and kind. I’m choosing to believe Jesus, the prince of peace is going to show up in my life.
There is another comfort we have as well. It is the church. Jesus is teaching his friends in Matthew 16:18 and he is talking about the church, and he says this wild thing, “I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hades will not overcome it.” That is Bible for nothing will stop God and his church. Nothing can stop the friendship of people who have given themselves to Jesus and his teachings. I have great comfort in this. Whatever happens, I belong to Jesus, and his church will be there for me. My friends, much love
– Jack Hein.
Journal Guide: Answer these questions alone in your journal. They will help you process what God might be trying to tell you.
1. What have you been really missing lately? Why do you think you’ve been missing it so much lately?
2. Have you felt happy lately? If not, how have you felt in general?
3. What do you think it looks like for Jesus to be your comfort, and that his church will never fail because of it?
4. Take some time to write a prayer to God.
Conversation Guide: Ask these questions to your siblings or your mom or your dad. We think around the dinner table or right afterwards is the best time.
1. Would you rather eat no candy at Halloween or no Turkey at Thanksgiving?
2. What have you been really missing lately? Why do you think you’ve been missing it so much lately?
3. The devotional today talked about our biggest comfort being in Jesus and his church. How can we help each other trust Jesus as our biggest comfort?
Prayer: Read Matthew 16:13-20 and quietly pray this prayer to God.
God, I praise you for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. You created me, and you love me so deeply. Thank you that you are my only constant comfort in life. Help me to go to you when I am feeling uneasy and restless. I love you so much. Amen.