You're listening to Encounter, a simple daily podcast of sacred and mindful Christian

meditations.

You can listen here, but if you would enjoy being able to search and favor it, forward

and journal as you listen, I encourage you to download the encountering piece mobile

app where all the meditations are free, as they should be.

My father passed away while I was in college, and my mother, while she died about 12 years ago.

So for the last decade or more, I have essentially been an orphan, playing without a backstop,

and I suppose what I miss most about my mom is her comfort.

When she died, I was at a place in my life and career where she couldn't really help

me with anything, but just her mere presence felt comforting during times of trial and confusion.

Just knowing I could sit in her kitchen and she would listen with a comforting smile.

I miss that. I miss her comforting smile.

But where do you turn for comfort during times of hardship?

Well, this meditation from Isaiah chapter 66 is a reflection on finding consolation in the comforting

heart of God, discovering peace in the tender embrace of his arms.

If you ever fight against feelings of loneliness and isolation, well, you're not alone,

but the Lord is here and you are safe. May the Lord be with you.

So begin your meditation by finding a place to be at rest a comforting sanctuary.

Just settle into a posture with your hands crossed softly over your heart,

and accept the comforting assurance of the eternal Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Continue in this time of comfort by listening and then responding to this passage from

2 Corinthians chapter 1, and as I lead us, respond heavenly Father. Thank you for comforting me.

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