Later, in my ongoing prayers for her, the thought came to me
that I wished I could take her in my arms and comfort her, much as I did my
children when they were small and hurting. In fact, when my little girl was
sick or upset, one thing that brought her consolation was to snuggle under an
old family quilt I kept on a quilt rack in our living room. When she went away
to college, she asked if she could take it with her to help make the emotional
transition from childhood into adulthood. She still has it with her, now that
she lives almost 2,000 miles away from home.
Quilts were a staple in pioneer homes from very early times in
America. They were colorful, creative, and they brought warmth to the home. I
don’t know the origin of what we commonly call comforters, but it strikes me how aptly they are named. A person
who is cold, in pain, or filled with distress can gain a measure of relief by
burrowing beneath its covers. The same is true of quilts, particularly those
which hold good memories or have special family significance.
It strikes me that it is no accident Jesus spoke to His
disciples about their Father sending them “the Comforter.” He meant, of course,
the presence of the Holy Spirit, but I wonder if that is why we call snuggly
blankets “comforters”, because it is symbolic of God’s comforting care, His
provision to provide us a place to be soothed and safe.
As the Fall season progresses and the air holds promise of
cooler weather, we know we will soon be looking for ways to stay warm. This
year, as you find warmth and comfort beneath an old quilt or a favorite
comforter, let Jesus bring to your mind His promise to BE your Comforter, no
matter the temperature outside. He will calm your spirit and soothe any pain in
your heart if you will snuggle beneath the folds of His care.
