Advent Week 1: Day 5:

God's Presence in Suffering:

Psalm 23,

1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

2 He makes me to lie down in green pastures;

He leads me beside the still waters.

3 He restores my soul;

He leads me in the paths of righteousness

For His name’s sake.

4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,

I will fear no evil;

For You are with me;

Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;

You anoint my head with oil;

My cup runs over.

6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me

All the days of my life;

And I will dwell in the house of the LORD

Forever.

2 Corinthians 1:3-7

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. 5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds through Christ. 6 Now if we are afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effective for enduring the same sufferings which we also suffer. Or if we are comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. 7 And our hope for you is steadfast, because we know that as you are partakers of the sufferings, so also you will partake of the consolation.

Pastor Steve’s sermon this week mentioned that Jesus is wonderful even in our pain and suffering. Today's readings remind us of God's comforting presence in difficult times. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's presence in the midst of suffering. How did it change your perspective? The Psalmist writes about God being with us in the "darkest valley." How can you cultivate a greater awareness of God's presence in your daily life, especially during challenging times? Consider reaching out to someone who is going through a difficult time, offering comfort and reminding them of God's faithful presence. Remember, as the sermon emphasized, Jesus is wonderful in every circumstance of our lives.