Week of October 1, 2001
Lois P.

"What a wonderful God we have - He is the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the source of every mercy, and the one who so wonderfully comforts and strengthens us in our hardships and trials. And why does he do this? So that when others are troubled, needing our sympathy and encouragement, we can pass on to them this same help and comfort God has given us. You can be sure that the more we undergo sufferings for Christ, the more he will shower us with his comfort and encouragement.... God will give you the strength to endure!"
     2 Corinthians 1:3-7

During these past few weeks, we have sat together in families and small groups comforting one another. We have prayed together and alone in many different places and in many different ways. We have also listened ... listened to President Bush, listened to the newscasts, and listened to each other. And like so many people, I have turned to my Bible to listen to God. The passage above is an excerpt from one of Paul's letters to the church in Corinth.

As a preface to the book of 2 Corinthians explains, "Paul had his share of facing attacks on innocent people and injustice. But Paul provides a good example of how to respond when we are unjustly attacked. There is rebuke, but there is also love and encouragement. Evil motives are exposed, but Paul longs for a changed heart in everyone." As we continue to seek comfort during this time, may we all reach out and share God's comfort with others. And by doing so, with God's help, we can spread his love and mercy with no limitations.

Heavenly Father, help us to continue to find comfort in you during this tragic time. Help us to lift up our fears and burdens to you and be open to receive your strength in us. Guide us as we reach out to those around us so that we may always be vessels of your love and mercy. In your name we pray, Amen.

Contributed by Lois P.
Published Monday October 1, 2001
Week 45 of Liturgical Year C