A Time for Solace

She didn’t want to go as she was tired, and it was a long drive from her home. She knew it was not possible to stay and visit very long that day. A myriad of excuses came unbidden to her mind. Her friend would understand, and perhaps another day would be better for a nice long visit. Even while such thoughts swirled in her mind, her car sped onward. Almost with a mind of its own it journeyed towards its destination still many miles away. Some type of purpose seemed to have given direction to the vehicle. In the back of her mind she thought there must be some reason to continue onward.

The sunlit scenery flew past the car windows. Majestic mountains soared heavenward to the east, with the valley stretching out from the rolling foothills. Traffic was light, and the hum of tires on the road kept a low steady accompaniment to the music on the radio. Sunshine filled the sky – perhaps it was a good day after all for a nice drive and a visit. Promises had been made, and it would be good to see her friend face to face again.

Finally she arrived at her destination, and climbed out of her small white car. It was good to stretch her legs, but even better yet to greet her dear friend with a hug. Conversation was somewhat subdued that afternoon, but flowed with a shared sense of humor and familiarity that deep friendship brings.

After a time the pleasant visit was rudely interrupted by the jarring ring of the telephone. Her friend spoke briefly and emotionally to the person on the other end of a long distance call. Then, upon hanging up, her friend broke down in pain filled tears of grief.

The news of her friend’s father passing away after a long and difficult illness had been expected for many weeks. But even so, it was a shock as all such news will be. She was unsure what to do or say, as up to that time she had never experienced such a loss in her own life. In simplicity she offered forth the only thing she had - arms of comfort, and a strong shoulder for her beloved friend.

Later while driving home and reflecting upon the days events, she knew with a certainty why she had been guided over those many miles to visit her friend at that time. God in His perfect love for His children had known of the need for solace to be given and received. And her heart poured forth with thankfulness that her friend was not alone on that day.

Years have since past, and it then was her turn to learn of God’s abiding love and care for her in a time of grief. Even through the tears and sorrow from loosing her own parents, she is able to recognize the gift of an always outstretched hand from a loving Father in Heaven. It is He who now unfailingly offers forth arms of comfort and a strong shoulder to her in times of her own need.