Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Visitation of the Virgin Mary to Elizabeth
 

2 Corinthians 1:3-11
Vs.5 "For just as the sufferings of Christ are abundant for us, so also our consolation is abundant through Christ". 

We all walk through the valley of death at one time or another.  There are times when each one of us are faced with much fear and doubt.  Fear of losing our loved ones or fear of our own health deteriorating.  And no matter what age we are at, or what stage of life we are going through, we all have plenty of doubts.  Doubts about choosing the right college, the right major, doubts about choosing the right life partner, doubts about being a good parent etc.  Sometimes we have financial doubts.  All these doubts make us worry and we spend countless hours worrying about our future.

Next time, when we face trials, let’s look at what the Bible teaches us.  Instead of being in a state of fear and doubt and worrying, let’s turn to the Father of compassion and the God of all comforts. (vs. 3) Today’s Bible portion clarifies it further in verse 5: When sufferings flow—Gods comfort overflows. Let’s look back at our lives, at the past weeks, months and years.  Let’s look back at that time in our life, when God brought healing in our lives. When God blessed our family through his grace.  Looking back, we all have stories of praise.  When we all have experienced God’s comfort, why doubt now?

Today’s theme is Mary’s visitation to Elizabeth.  We are all familiar with this portion in Luke 1:39-56.  Mary’s life had transformed overnight.  When this pregnant Mary came to Judea to visit her cousin Elizabeth, she must have been fearful and doubtful about how Elizabeth might react to her unwed pregnancy.  But Elizabeth, a woman of God herself, was not judgemental or harsh, instead she called Mary blessed. Elizabeth comforted Mary when she needed it the most.

Likewise, each one of us is placed wherever we are, to comfort those around us.  We are not just meant to experience God’s comfort and go on with our lives, but instead Gods comfort should overflow through us. It is our responsibility to get on our knees for other’s need. 
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, you have blessed me beyond what I deserve.  You have carried me through my most difficult times.  I thank you and praise you Father.  Break my heart for what breaks yours, so that I may pray and comfort those in need. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

We are comforted to comfort those in discomfort.

Mrs. Ann Abraham Kochamma, St. Thomas MTC, Delware 
Christian Education Forum, Diocese of NAE of the Mar Thoma Church

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