Compassion

During my 71 years of life I have often been in a position where I had to depend on the kindness of others. When I was in the hospital I relied on the expertise and compassion of medical professionals for health and basic needs. Whenever we came home from overseas, we depended on the hospitality of friends for housing and transportation. When we were young and struggling financially, we needed the support of family and friends, not so much materially but with wisdom and counsel.

So given this long history of receiving kindness from others, why is my heart so cold toward the needs of others at times? Sometimes I don’t see the needs, even though they may be obvious to others. Other times I see the need but am not moved to help.

Romans 12:13 says, “Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.” Hospitality is sharing what we have with those in need. So I have the command to be compassionate. I also have an example to follow. Isaiah 54:8 says, “but with everlasting love I will have compassion on you, says the Lord, your Redeemer.” God has poured out His love, grace and mercy upon me. How can I withhold compassion from others?

Join me in making this week a time of focusing on compassion. In the power of the Holy Spirit, be aware of needs around you and find a way to help, even in some small way.