Mabel

Psalm 22:24 – For he has not despised or disdained the suffering of the afflicted one; he has not hidden his face from him but has listened to his cry for help. (NIV)

Psalm 34:18 – The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and saves those who are crushed in spirit. (NASB)

My horse, Mabel, was the answer for a small boy's broken heart and cry for comfort.

Little did I realize, the night I sold her, what a significant role she would play in the small lad's life.

Oh, of course, Mabel showed off when he mounted her, attempting to throw him off by whirling, just like she had treated me the first time I rode her. She was a one-person horse.

I assured him that with kind words, brown sugar, and patience, she would make up with him. And to bond further with her, he should talk to her while riding. She would prick her ears back and listen. Then, he would be the one-and-only. If he had no success, I would take her back.

A few years passed, and finally, a letter came from his mother to let us know that Mabel had died.

The letter also explained that Mabel was the answer to his prayer, a prayer he had nightly prayed to God to send a replacement for his twin brother, who had died in an accident. She had become his close companion, helping to mend his broken heart.

God's love and care for him and for other children in grief permeates this account. God comforted him when he was hurting and feeling lonely, and through Mabel, the boy was able to live again. God does not willingly bring affliction or grief to the children of men.

Ezekiel 18:32 – For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign Lord. Repent and live! (NIV)

Matthew 5:4 – Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. (NIV)

Prayer: Dear Lord, we thank You for Your goodness, and for being a refuge in times of trouble for all of us. We know that You care for all who trust in You. Amen.