The warble of a songbird on a spring morning inspires us, and the chorus of tree frogs on a summer night refreshes us. The whimper of a puppy touches us, and the scream of a stallion thrills us. But I can’t think of any sound in the animal kingdom more comforting than the sound of a cat purring. A cat’s purr is a genuine expression of pleasure and contentment. No cat will pretend to be at peace when it is not—there is no fake purr. It is this quality of genuineness that makes purring a comforting sound.  

Although people do not purr, they do comfort each other; but not all forms of comfort are equal. A friend we’ll call George was diagnosed with cancer. His worldly buddies came by, slapped him on the back, and wished him luck. A godly man spoke with George one day and encouraged him to seek the Lord. The man said he would pray for him. George’s worldly buddies left him feeling hollow and empty, but he found deep comfort in the words of his godly friend.  

Today’s Bible reading explains that we are comforted by the God of all comfort. In turn, after we ourselves are comforted, we can comfort others by sharing that deep, rich comfort which comes from God. People who do not know and love God do not know how to give meaningful comfort. They have to make do with a slap on the back and a “good luck” wish. I am thankful that as a child of God I can experience the full, sweet comfort that comes from the Holy Spirit and fellow believers.  

No, people don’t purr—but then again, maybe some do.  

Comfort best comes from the sureness of hope, 
A lifeline for those at the end of their rope 

From Paws on My Porch, by Gary Miller
© 2015 TGS International, PO Box 355, Berlin, Ohio 44610
Used by permission