All over the world, every week we hear of some disaster or tragedy that is affecting someone. We as Christians, have no excuse not to be helping those in need. It is never wrong to help those who are in need. To turn a blind eye and say, ‘that’s not our problem’ is to ignore the very command of Jesus to love one another. Michael W. Smith compelled us with the song ‘Love isn’t love until you give it away’. Are we hoarding the love of God, or are we sharing it with compassion, ready to make a difference where ever it may be?
“Standing near the cross were Jesus’ mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary (the wife of Clopas), and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother standing there beside the disciple he loved, he said to her, “Dear woman, here is your son.” And he said to this disciple, “Here is your mother.” And from then on this disciple took her into his home.”
John 19:25-27 NLT
Even in his death Jesus was show compassion. He wanted to ensure his mother was taken care of. What amazing love he has for people. Do we care about the people around us? I mean really care? Jesus at the brink of death was still thinking of others.
I sometimes wonder why we miss this point. We need to be a church who had our community in mind and working at helping the needs of those around us.
How then will we go out and show compassion to those around us? Are we waiting for a big event to shake our neighborhood before we jump into action? Or are we ready to help those in need with the little things, blankets for the cold, shelter for the homeless, love for the unloved, or food for the hungry?
Must we wait until the church leadership makes a push forward and then we jump onboard, or are we willing to just go and do it on our own? Sometimes waiting for someone else to make a move will slow you down, get up and show compassion because you want to not because someone tells you it needs to be done, or organizes it. You may be the change maker needed to start something big. One person’s compassion can change a community and beyond.
Love isn’t love until you give it away. Are you ready to share love and compassion that was given to you?
Jesus, As we remember the day you died for us, let us remember your compassion for those in need and work to follow your example of love for the hurting. Thank you for your sacrifice, let us desire to sacrifice our needs for you. Use me to meet the needs of those around me, let me not try to hoard you love, I want to give it away. Amen
50 Days of Pray 