But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, long-suffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth. Psalm 86:15
I recently read a story about a bus driver in Winnipeg, Canada, that brought his passengers to tears when he stopped his bus to give a homeless barefoot man the shoes off his feet. One of the passengers commented, ” That was the most amazing thing I have ever seen.” A real act of compassion. Signature’s Sacred Six character for August is “Compassion.” Are we fulfilling this by showing compassion to those in need. God sends people our way on purpose each day so that we can help them. After spending time with them, do they feel better or are we just another person passing their way. The Bible says that God is full of compassion, gracious, long-suffering, and plenteous in mercy. There is no greater reward in our lifetime than to pass this on to others. You have something to offer that no one else can give, “Your Compassion.” The definition for compassion is “Sorrow for the suffering of others.” But I think the best definition I have ever heard comes from one of my old pastors. “Your hurt in my heart.” What a great description of compassion. If you look back over your own life, you’ll find others had compassion on you. Maybe your parents, or a good friend. Now, its your turn to pass it on. How long has it been since you showed compassion to someone else? Who are you sharing your compassion with today?
Father, you have shown me compassion each and every day. Help me that I may pass it on to those you send my way. Amen.