Can God Call You 'Titus'?

"...we were troubled on every side.  Outside were conflicts, inside were fears.  Nevertheless God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus..."  2 Corinthians 7:5b-6

In the past month I will have attended three funerals.  The third is today.  A dad, a mother-in-law, a husband.  Three precious family members of three special friends.  Cause of death, a varying form of cancer.  Makes me nervous and thankful at the same time being a two-year ovarian cancer survivor.  However, this is not a "cancer" post, just noting the similarities.

I think what has spoken to my heart over the recent weeks as I've attended visitations and funerals is the response from loved ones and friends.  Having recently been the recipient of a showering of love and support at my own dad's passing, I know first hand the comfort that comes from God's family.

I know this time of year is busy, but it deeply saddens my heart when others don't make the time to show their love by their presence at these vital opportunities.  Speaking from experience, it means something.  My dad's funeral was quite large.  Family. Friends. Neighbours. Nursing staff. Past employers and employees.  Young people.  Folks we hadn't seen in quite some time drove great distances in the middle of their summer holidays to make the effort to be "Titus" to us.  Just remembering again, my heart is overwhelmed by the kindness extended.  To look around and see such love.  Some faces truly touched my heart.  The sacrifices they made to be with us at this time...I'll never forget.

Yes, love has a face, and it might be yours.  Someone is needing to see you today.  God uses each of us as He did Titus, to bring His comfort to one who is troubled on every side.  It might not be the passing of a loved one, but something has caused a need, whether outside conflicts or inside fears.

Don't hesitate.  Today is the day.  Like times of visitation and funeral, you can't get it back.  When the opportunity is past don't be filled with regret.  Remove self, agenda, discomfort, awkwardness and excuses.  Go and love.  You do it for the living.  You do it to be God's Hands to the hurting, delivering His comfort through a kind word, a hug, a shed tear, an arm around the shoulder, a shared remembrance, a meal delivered, or just being there.  If you can't say one word, show up.  Your presence speaks more than anything you could verbalize.  It speaks volumes of love.

The "coming of Titus" comforted many.  Will you be a "Titus" to someone today?