2 Kgs 2:1, 6-14 Ps 31:20, 21, 24 Matt 6:1-6, 16-18

Weekly Guide for Daily Prayer The Daily Reflections

"Let your hearts take comfort, all who hope in the Lord." -Psalm 31:24

Today this verse stood out to me.  It is actually very relatable in my life this week.  Tragedy happens every day around us, but rarely do we think tragedy will strike within our own lives.  When we experience a misfortune it is hard to feel comforted.  It’s easy to get mad and ask why certain things happen.  There is one thing that I know can bring comfort in times of heartache: if we have hope in the Lord, he will bring us comfort.  He is constant in our lives and brings hope to us every day, even if we may not see it.

Last week, a friend received news that no one wants to hear.  She found out that her 28-year-old cousin and his friend were missing persons back home.  Hearing that someone has passed away is hard enough, but not knowing the whereabouts or condition of someone is terrifying.  I prayed for her and her family, that God would bring them comfort.  Even though the situation did not directly relate to me, I was still saddened by it because I care about my friend and hated to see her worry.  One thing that was comforting was that it was no mystery to God where her cousin was.  He was with him every step of the way. 

About a week later, authorities found his car in a canyon and neither he nor his friend had made it.  This was truly a tragedy, but God had a handle on the whole situation.  I believe God truly comforted my friend and her family during this time.  The greatest comfort of all is knowing her cousin is now in heaven with God.  Even though losing a life is tough here on Earth, we have to remember this life is temporary and we can be comforted by the fact that there is something so much better waiting on the other side.  So for now, let us not take this life for granted.  Thank God for giving us his hope and love daily.