Today, I want to share a story about my 2.5-year-old son, Ellis, and our journey through the trials and tribulations of potty training. We embarked on this mission when he hit the ripe age of 2, and I thought I was prepared for round three of potty training. Little did I know, training a boy is a whole different adventure compared to girls!
Ellis’s approach is unique and unapologetic. When he feels the urge, it doesn’t matter where he is or who’s around. He boldly declares, “Mommy, Poopy!!!” You might even recognize his enthusiastic calls from our lobby at church. When nature calls, he answers with gusto!
Parent or not, you can probably relate to moments that demand immediate action.
Today, we’re diving deep into the concept of compassion, which can be likened to the urgency Ellis feels.
God’s Call to Compassion
James 1:27 reminds us of pure and undefiled religion in the eyes of God. It involves caring for orphans and widows in their distress while maintaining our purity in a worldly world. Compassion, in its Greek essence, means to be moved deep within, akin to our bowels—a profound feeling that compels action.
Our little ones, like Ellis, are particularly vulnerable. Thus, we are all called to be MOVED with compassion for the defenseless in our society, which could be almost anyone these days.
God’s Compassion Throughout the Bible
The Bible is replete with stories of God’s compassion. He showed compassion to unlikely individuals like Rahab, a prostitute, and even to David, who committed adultery and murder. Despite His people turning away, God continued to save and protect them. Take the Book of Hosea, for instance, where God called a prophet to marry a prostitute—a poignant demonstration of His unwavering love and compassion.
Jesus, too, embodies compassion in the Bible, often being “moved with compassion,” resulting in miracles such as healing the sick, feeding the hungry, and granting sight to the blind.
A Call to Greater Works
John 14:12 reminds us that those who believe in Jesus will do even greater works than He did. Most recipients of Jesus’ compassion were undeserving, but He healed and delivered them anyway. Compassion requires sacrifice.
What Compassion Looks Like for Us
So, what does compassion look like in our lives? Let me share a story about a woman I encountered outside Aldi. Compassion often demands inconvenience and sacrifice. It compels us to lend a helping hand, open our hearts, and share our resources.
Imagine a world where we all embrace this level of compassion! We can only attain this by entering God’s presence and allowing Him to transform us from within.
Facing the Question of Suffering
Often, we wonder why there’s so much suffering in the world if God exists. The answer lies within us, in people. We cause suffering, but we can also be the solution. However, we become the answer when we draw closer to God and reflect His image.
It’s All About What You Crave
Think of it like sugar. When you consume sugar, you crave more sugar. To desire God’s goodness, we must rid our lives of spiritual junk. Are we more focused on politics or God’s kingdom? Do we seek godly relationships or toxic ones? Are we addicted or in need of deliverance?
Compassion sometimes means embracing the opposite of what we think we need, just as God allowed His people to face the consequences of their actions. If you need God’s compassion today, remember, His open arms are always ready to receive you.
Give Compassion Freely
And if you’re in a position to give compassion, don’t hesitate. Seek opportunities, be prepared, and be willing to change whatever is necessary to extend compassion.
In closing, compassion is the heartbeat of God. Just as Ellis’s urgent calls move us to action, may the urgency of compassion move us to change lives and reflect the love of our Heavenly Father.
– Pastor Krissy