Comforting

One evening, a father and daughter enjoyed peach shortcake in a local’s diner crowded with tourists. Seated nearby was a mommy with a toddler. As dinner was served, the little girl erupted into tears, complaining of a hurt wrist -- but she wouldn’t show her wrist. Her mortified mommy consoled her, but the crying became louder.

The father and daughter tried distracting the little girl. Their distraction failed, and the toddler’s crying became a wailing chant, “I want to go home.” Quickly, a doggy-bag was organized. 


As the mommy and toddler left, the father and daughter scanned the restaurant and saw sympathetic, understanding eyes, and relief, too. Few people take pleasure in others' pain, thank God. When the pain of others hurts us, we feel empathy. When those we love suffer, they need us for comfort and support, like a child needs a mommy. When we suffer, we find our living God in loving arms, and eyes.

A kind word helps those who suffer. A hug. A look. A smile. A visit. A hand held. A prayer. A call. A card. A text. Even when words fail, what remains is the kindness of showing we care. It’s not so much what we say. It is what we do. A little kindness lightens the burdens of fear and loneliness.

Let’s Pray: Dear God we pray with kindness for those who are hospitalized or bedridden or lonely. May our arms, our words, our eyes, and action be healing to them, or let loving others hold us. Amen.

Today’s Thought Is: Show kindness. Live compassionately.

Source: Matthew 25:40 Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these, you did it to me.