Compassion is defined as a feeling of deep sympathy and sorrow for someone stricken by misfortune, accompanied by a strong desire to alleviate the suffering. What struck me in the definition is that compassion is not just feeling sorry, but accompanied by a strong desire to do something.
Our pastor recently talked about compassion being something you feel in your gut. When we feel compassion we are putting ourselves into that person's place. It will show itself through merciful acts of kindness and care without judgment. Without compassion there is no mission.
Recently a friend sent me a link that tells the story of Father Gregory Boyle, a Jesuit priest, who founded Homeboy Industries in an effort to address the needs of gang-involved youth. Father Greg and the community have developed positive alternatives, including establishing an elementary school, a day care program and employment. Every month, hundreds of former gang members walk through the doors of Homeboy Industries. They might be fresh out of jail or juvenile detention and their needs are very real.
One of the stories Father Greg tells in the interview is of a young lady who had come for help, at one point telling him that she wished he was God. He chuckled and asked her why. Her response was that she thought that, if he was God, he would let her into heaven. Coming from where she was coming from, the hard knocks she had faced, my heart just went out to her and I thought, is that not how we ought to live? In essence, showing people what God is like.
Oh, that we would realize that what we believe about God will show itself in our day to day life whether we realize it or not. If we believe Him to be a judgmental God we will show judgement, but if we believe Him to be a God of second chances we will do likewise.
"When Jesus saw the crowds, he had compassion on them,
because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd."
Matthew 9:36
I pray for the kind of compassion that will enlarge my heart, my vision and perimeters to go beyond where I am now.
10 comments:
What a great post. I join you in your prayer for compassion that will expand my heart and vision. Thank you for sharing.
I've heard this quote before..."you may be 'the picture of God' that someone ever sees". So important that we portray a truthful image of Him. Thanks for this thoughtful post.
Anneliese, you have touched my heart with your words today. Thank you. Dairymary
Thanks Anneliese, you have touched my heart here as well. May God also expand my heart and vision to be compassionate.
You found so much there Anneliese. I am humbled and chastened since I just half listen while doing kitchen chores. I'll try it your way next time. xxx
Another one, here, touched by this post. Day to day I see wonderful examples of compassion and terrible examples of its absence. I think I needed to read this post and its link.
Thank you for this today.
I pray for what you pray, every day. I ask God to show His powerful love and grace in my life, to a hurting world. Good post!
May that be my prayer daily as well.
Yes... may I have the God-kind of compassion that makes a difference!
Post a Comment