NOTES for Co2 1:1-7
Paul calls the Lord “the Father of mercies and the God of all consolation,” beginning his letter to the Christians in Corinth with these very words. Apparently, the apostle considered it extremely important to begin his letter with precisely this description, for these few verses reveal the entire essence of how people in this world are bound together through mutual consolation.
Christ consoles us in our afflictions so that we can do the same for those around us who need it. Paul calls us not to shut ourselves up within our suffering, but to seek consolation from God, who alone can deliver us from it, and at the same time to seek those to whom we ourselves can bring His love. By giving what we freely received from the Lord, we lose nothing but gain a great deal, becoming part of the circulation of His mercy among people. Is this not what the example of all the Christian saints bears witness to?