Potomac Conference

The Pandemic Comforters visit Rep. Jamie Raskin and his family (center) after the loss of their son.

Story by Potomac Conference Staff

They are known as the Pandemic Comforters—a group of members from Washington, D.C., area churches, who embark on a mission to bring hope and healing. The unique work of this group is two- fold: to encourage politicians in a time of need and to offer prayers with them in bringing an end to the coronavirus and protecting our nation’s democracy.

Group members, including founder Rockefeller Twyman, a member of the Rockville (Md.) church, recently visited the home of Maryland Rep. Jamie Raskin, whose son, Thomas, took his own life.

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“He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever” (Rev. 21:4, NLT).

This verse has always been a favorite of mine, so I recently read it in various translations. Surprised to find 28 translations online, I realized there are many different ways God shows us that because one day He will make death disappear, we can look forward to being happy forever.

My mom was very ill for four, long years and passed away three years ago. It still doesn’t feel real that she is gone. God never intended for us to experience that kind of sadness, separation and death. He created us to live forever with each other and with Him.

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“I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10, NIV).

I was blessed to have parents who always believed in me. I can’t remember a decision I made in which my parents were not there to lend their support. They may not have agreed with every decision I made, but they were alongside me as I moved on from the outcome of my decisions. Their willingness to be there for me meant the world. It gave me strength and confidence to move forward when, at times, I didn’t think I could. Maybe you had parents like that or maybe you had someone else in your life who cheered for you. Whether you did or didn’t, know that in Christ we all have a passionate cheerleader.