Compassion makes life beautiful.
Compassion makes life worth living.
Compassion gives us a glimpse of heaven here on earth.
Because God is is the epitome of compassion.
If we want to be compassionate we need to become more like him.

The fifth spiritual fruit discribed in Galatians 5:22 has traditionally been translated kindness (NIV/NRSV/CEB) or gentleness (KJV). The Message describes it as “a sense of compassion in the heart”. I think it is more thought-provoking than kindness or gentleness. It gives us an urgent call for action.

We are called to live hand in hand.
We are called to help each other out.
We are called to share God’s lovingkindness and compassion with everyone we encounter.
We are called to become more Christ-like.
We are called to show compassion.

But it’s more than giving handouts.
We are called to live hand in hand.
What could that mean?

Micah gives us direction: But he’s already made it plain how to live, what to do, what God is looking for in men and women. It’s quite simple: Do what is fair and just to your neighbor, be compassionate and loyal in your love, And don’t take yourself too seriously— take God seriously.(Micah 6:8, MSG, emphasis mine)

We are to take God seriously, not ourselves. We are to be God’s hands and feet on this green earth. We are to act our faith out by showing God’s love and compassion to each other.

Max Lucado guides us to choose what really matters this way:”If today were your last, would you do what you’re doing? Or would you love more, give more, forgive more? Then do so! Forgive and give as if it were your last opportunity. Love like there’s no tomorrow, and if tomorrow comes, love again.”

Like all the spiritual fruit, compassion is something that God will make happen. It’s not our doing. But we can answer ‘yes’ to God’s calling and allow God’s work in our hearts.

The more time we spend in God’s presence,
the more Christ-like,
the more compassionate we become.
The more we allow God to work though us,
the more glimpses of heaven can be seen and felt here on earth.
Then we are truly living hand in hand.

 

Gracious God,
Thank you for being abundantly compassionate.
Help us to become more like you.
Take us by the hand and guide, teach & direct us.
Help us to live hand in hand.
Bless us with your lovingkindness.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen

Q4U: Do you live hand in hand?

Be blessed, my fellow pilgrim, as you reach out your hand for others!

Giving thanks today for
#71 compassion
#72 holding hands
#73 preciousness of life
#74 safety in God
#75 living hand in hand
#76 sharing life and love
#77 family
#78 being used by God
#79 receiving unexpected kindness
#80 life

Image courtesy of Aaron Watt. This post was refurbished from 6/2010. Linking up today with