What’s been on your heart lately? How are you REALLY doing? My heart gets heavy for those suffering or going through difficult challenges. Many of you may be like me—thankfully living a good, somewhat comfortable life.
My Auntie Marie just passed away. She lived behind us on the same property and played a major role in my childhood, helping to raise me. When we moved back from Kansas City in 2000, she was there to welcome us, and she got to watch our kids grow up, which was a special blessing.
Auntie Marie adored my wife, Beckie. And that love was mutual. Through Auntie’s gentle spirit and warm presence, Beckie encountered the unconditional love of God in a deeply personal way.
Auntie faced many trials throughout her life, especially in her later years—falls, a stroke, physical decline. Watching her go through those painful seasons was hard. But what stood out most wasn’t her suffering, it was her overcoming spirit. She remained one of the happiest, most resilient people we knew. She was our example of an overcomer in the face of adversity and “the uncomfortable” in life.
“All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.”
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NLT
God is the source of all comfort. And He certainly used Auntie’s life to show us His mercies, love, and comfort. I pray that I could be such a blessing to others through my ups and downs and all the uncomfortable situations in life. May He use me … use us … to bring grace, love, and comfort to others.
“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33 NLT
Thank you, Jesus!
