Compassion

Sympathetic - Consciousness of others' distress together with a desire to alleviate it.

At some time in our life here on earth, all of us will need compassion to help us through a situation. Compassion is a priceless attribute that we as Christians should always carry with us. How can we show compassion? What we know that is right in our heart is what we should do. Sometimes no words are required, a hug, a pat on the back, a touch of the hand, an arm around the shoulder -- all speak volumes to those we care about. At other times, a phone call, a visit, a written note, can uplift the spirit of one who is hurting. We need to remember that events expected and unexpected will touch all of our lives. The bible tells us “it rains on the just and the unjust.” No matter how good and righteous we may think we are, there will be a time when we will need someone to show us compassion.

There are times when someone may have brought a situation on themselves and we are tempted to say “it’s their own fault.” But, this is the time to show compassion more than ever. Who are we to judge? Can we honestly say there has never been a time in our lives where we have not caused our own pain and suffering? God know our hearts and minds and if He is quick to show us compassion, why should we be reluctant to extend compassion to others? (It is probably easier for us to show compassion to those we know and love than strangers and enemies but these are the ones who need our compassion the most.) Our reaching out to a brother or sister in need may be the action that makes all the difference in their recovery from the difficulty they are experiencing. We may not be able to change the situation in someone’s life, but we can show that we care. God wants us to realize that none of us are exempt from hurt, pain and sorrow. When we have the opportunity to uplift a fallen spirit we need to do whatever we can.

Compassion has no expiration date; it is good for use as long as we live. It will always be needed. Sometimes, others may have done us wrong and when rain falls in their lives we want to say “they are getting what they deserve.” My brothers & sisters we just need to look in the mirror! Thank God for His mercy and grace. If we all got what we deserve, our lives would be in shambles! Life can change in a moment of time. The compassion you show others today, you may need tomorrow!

Etrulia “Trudi” Brady

January 13, 2011