As a mother comforts her child, so I will comfort you; you shall be comforted in Jerusalem.” vs. 13
Isaiah 66:13-14
When a child falls and sustains some sort of injury, often the first impulse is to run for mama! A mother’s hug and embrace have amazing healing qualities, and if a crying boy or girl can somehow snuggle for some extra moments and be held close, the tears will often subside. The prophet was familiar with that sort of healing and used that image to comfort the people of Israel. He says that one day this is how Jerusalem will be for them, that God will comfort them in the city as a mother comforts her child. Jesus picked up on that theme in his ministry too, and when he encountered weeping and sadness, used the image of a mother hen to describe his feelings for hurting people. “How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings…” Comfort has always been a part of the gospel message, and it’s what we crave when pain and suffering come our way. In those moments it feels so good to know that our God has all the qualities of a loving mother. On our darkest days we can sink into the loving embrace of God and hear all the words of affirmation that we might possibly need. This is one of the reasons so many Christians have such a deep attachment for Mary. Some even claim her as the maternal manifestation of God–in her the mother’s love is unmistakable.
Thought for the Day: What does a mother’s love feel like?
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