Don’t be afraid

‘Do not be afraid — I am with you!
I am your God — let nothing terrify you!
I will make you strong and help you;
I will protect you and save you.’    (verse 10)

Read Isaiah 41:8-13

At the age of 81 my mother was dying of cancer. She was in hospital, receiving palliative care.

I had travelled from home to spend a few days with her. In the evening, as I sat by her bedside, I wanted to offer her some gospel comfort, but I was having difficulty finding the words.

Then I noticed her hymnbook on her bedside table. Mum had always loved to sing hymns. I began quietly singing some of her favourite hymns such as ‘Be still, my soul’ and ‘How great thou art’. She couldn’t speak, but she nodded and smiled, encouraging me to go on. And I did, for over half an hour, until she drifted off into peaceful sleep.

I believe my mother found great comfort in the familiar words of those hymns. She certainly showed no fear or distress as she faced death.

God promises to be with us at all times. Each day his love is there to help, protect and strengthen us for whatever life brings our way.

God of all comfort, assure me of your presence and help today and every day. Amen.

Devotion by John Vitale from “Refreshment for each day” (LCA, Openbook Publishers, 2003)

Visit the Daily Devotion archives page.