All of us will experience times in our lives when we feel lonely or isolated. However, it may be for obvious reasons, such as having relationship problems with a spouse or losing a loved one. No matter your age, loneliness can be a big problem as it’s not always easy to find a group of like-minded people to socialise with.

Christ, who understands loneliness and rejection,  became like one of us. John wrote:

The Word became a human being and, full of grace and truth,

lived among us. We saw his glory, the glory which he received as

the Father’s only Son. John 1:14

The Psalmist often called out to God in loneliness and desolation:

Turn to me, Lord, and be merciful to me, because I am lonely and weak. Psalms 25:16

Don’t hide yourself from your servant; I am in great trouble — answer me now! Come to me and save me; rescue me from my enemies. I had hoped for sympathy, but there was none; for comfort, but I found none. Psalms 69:17-18,20b

Feelings of loneliness often come and go during life. However, if you’re persistently lonely for no obvious reason it can be a sign of depression. In this case, you need to talk about it, either to your family, a friend or a counsellor to get help. Christ, who experienced the utmost desolation, offers you a place in his heart:

“Come to me, all of you who are tired from carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke and put it on you, and learnfrom me, because I am gentle and humble in spirit; and you will find rest. For the yoke I will give you is easy, and the load I will put on you is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

Prayer: Lord Jesus thank you that you offer each one of us a place in your heart and that you are always ready to comfort us. Thank you that your Holy Spirit lives in us and that we are never alone. Amen