Compassion

Matthew 9 : 32 - 38

....preaching.....healing.....compassion....

"Never was anything like this seen in ......(our country, or neighborhood)" If only this could be said of places where Christians live/work. What an impact we would have on society. But sad to say, apart from church activities - I wonder whether we are any 'different' from those around us. I think what I would most like to 'grow' towards is to possess a depth of compassion like that of our Lord.

Jesus was not just another articulate preacher and miracle worker. He did all these but his motivation came from a heart full of compassion. His official 'role' did not get in the way of truly expressing the heart of his Father for the "harassed and helpless" people. I think if we reflect on the times when we have been at the receiving end of 'ministry' - there were times when it all seemed rather perfunctory, and there were other times when we really felt the compassion of the person ministering to our neediness. Those were times when we were cared for as unique individuals, not just someone standing in line to be prayed for. When we minister, other may also sense the difference.

I know how hard it is to remain deeply compassionate when there are just so many to minister to. Humanly speaking, it is not possible. I feel exhausted when I have had a full day at the clinic and there have just been so many people with complex needs.

In the midst of very busy schedules, even Jesus had to take time off for solitude. How much more for frail human beings, if we are to allow 'compassion' to grow within our hearts.

We need "time - out to sit under God's tender and powerful gaze".