1:3 God of all comfort. The “Father” is thus our “Comforter.” The word “comfort” in these verses (also note II Corinthians 1:4,6-7, a total of ten times), is either parakaleo or paraklesis, in some cases translated “consolation.” Its meaning is essentially “be called alongside.” It is related also to parakletos, translated “Comforter” in John 14:26, speaking of the Holy Spirit, and “advocate” in I John 2:1, speaking of Jesus Christ. Thus, each Person of the Trinity—Father, Son, Holy Spirit—can be the One who comforts us, however and whenever we have need for comfort, consolation, or advocacy.