Tuesday, December 19
Isaiah 40:1-17 and Revelation 7:1-17
Honestly, I did not understand the true meaning of, or the need for, comfort until I found myself grieving the loss of our 4-year-old daughter Addison Grace. She was beautiful, kind, smart, and born with half a heart. With her death, which occurred during Advent, I realized there would not be a “happy ending” for our story here on earth.
Family, friends, and even strangers kindly reached out to comfort us in so many ways. We were wrapped in love, support, and prayer. Yet even with all the outpouring of comfort, I was not sure how I would move forward. I needed time to understand that I sought solace beyond what this world could offer. It was through my sadness that the Lord provided, as He always does. For the Lamb in the midst of the throne will be their Shepherd and he will guide them to springs of living water and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes (Revelation 7:17)
God’s comfort and promise was that this was not the end, but rather only the beginning and the hope of a better tomorrow. Behold, his reward is with him, and his recompense before him. He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them in his bosom; and gently lead those that are with young (Isaiah 40:10-11). I further knew that Addy no longer suffered and was safely in the arms of our Father, the Shepherd. There IS a happy ending—our Lord has told us so—even if the story here on earth is not what I had hoped it would be.
My experience with loss is not unique to me. We all have had or will have times in our lives that we will face what seems like insurmountable grief. The season of Advent and the words on which we reflect today remind us we are not alone. My prayer for you, and particularly for all those that seek comfort, is that you will find it in the promise that this season and our Savior bring. The promise of salvation through our Lord, no matter the trials that we face in this world, provides peace, comfort, grace, and understanding only possible through Him.
CHRISTY CALL
Strategic Partnerships, CUW
About this series
“God With Us: the uncommon advent of our Savior” is a sampling of biblical meditations composed by members of the CUWAA community. It is our prayer that you will take time during the Advent season to read and reflect upon God’s Word and await the coming of Jesus with newfound enthusiasm and anticipation through the Holy Spirit.