Not The Comfy Chair

The words mentioned above refer back to the well-known 'Monty Python' sketch which featured a parody of the Spanish Inquisition. An odd way I know to introduce the subject for today's post: the concept of comfort in our everyday Christian lives. Bear with me a little...

You see, some people have a hard time coming to terms with some of the difficulties in following the Christian path, particularly when a number of scripture verses describe the Holy Spirit as a 'comforter'. They don't see anything comforting about it - in fact, the whole experience makes them most uncomfortable.

A dictionary definition of comfort:
"Experiencing physical well-being or relief; free from stress; having or affording peace of mind."

Okay, let's look at that word 'comforter' a little deeper. The Greek word used here for the Holy Spirit here is parakletos , which etymologically means "called to one's side." In fact, that where we get the English word 'paraclete' (a word that is not in common usage but which I really like). Modern English translations prefer to use the words "comforter", "helper" or "advocate". Incidentally, the Hebrew version of the word is to be found in Job 16:2 in the plural, referring to the "comforters" who came to Job when he was in distress. Not very comforting, were they?

The word 'comforter' then isn't anything to do with rest or ease - it's more about encouraging you in your quest for truth. Helping you along. Steering you the right way. Lifting you up to greater things. Giving you peace of mind that you're on the right path.

As far as I am concerned, part of that 'comfort' is an encouragement not to sit there at home, but to be out there in the community, out of my comfort zone.

And not sitting in the comfy chair.