Where do you look for comfort?
The Heidelberg Catechism as put together in 1563 as a guide for youth work and as a summary of Christian truth to guide preachers in their work.
Like many catechisms, it takes the form of a set of questions and answers, and the first question goes straight to the issue of comfort.
‘What is your only comfort
in life and in death?’
The answer is rich and full of gospel encouragement. Here’s what it says:
That I am not my own, but belong body and soul, in life and in death to my faithful Saviour, Jesus Christ.
He has fully paid for all my sins with his precious blood, and has set me free from the tyranny of the devil.
He also watches over me in such a way that not a hair can fall from my head without the will of my Father in heaven; in fact, all things must work together for my salvation.
Because I belong to him, Christ, by his Holy Spirit, assures me of eternal life and makes me wholeheartedly willing and ready from now on to live for him.
This is rich truth for those living in troubled times and needing comfort for their souls.
A group of songwriters from Getty Music released a new song earlier this month that reflects on and rejoices in the first answer in the Heidelburg Catechism. You can watch it on YouTube below.
Christ is our comfort. He is our hope in life and death.
