Compassion

When I try and picture the Lord and what I think he will be like the first things that come to mind are kind, gentle, loving & compassionate.  You always hear that you are supposed to compassionate.  But what does that really mean or look like? Basically compassion is a desire to free others from their suffering.   We are supposed to feel this for everyone.  Yes, even that person you think is "getting what they deserve" in life.  It's hard to let go sometimes and not want someone who has hurt us in some way to hurt too.  What is it people always talk about...KARMA.  News flash... we weren't put in this world to judge others or decide how they should be punished for something they did.  We are called to love them and have compassion for them.  

As I was reading through Matthew I kept coming across the words "he was filled with compassion".  Speaking of Jesus whom we are supposed to mirror in our lives.  I am so grateful that he was filled with compassion for us or we might have the "get out of hell free" card that he has given us.  If we can't stop thinking about ourselves for one minute how are we going to think about how we can help others? If the Lord had so much compassion for me that he was willing to die for me the least I can do is want the best for others, take a risk for others, or share His grace with others.  Lets take a look at the Word.

"Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness.  When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd."

                                                 Matthew 9:35-36

"When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick."

                                                Matthew 14:14

"Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes.  Immediately they received their sight and followed him."

                                                Matthew 20:34

"A man with leprosy came to him and begged him on his knees. 'If you are willing, you can make me clean'.  Filled with compassion,  Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. 'I am willing' he said. 'Be clean!'  Immediately the leprosy left him and he was cured."

                                                Mark 1:40-42

Time and time again Jesus was filled with compassion and he acted.  His compassion always led to an action.  How amazing would it be if we had his compassion for the world around us and acted on it?  I think the world change! I challenge you to be filled with compassion as our Lord & I challenge you to do something about it! You would be surprised how much your compassion will rub off on those around you.  

"Finally all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble."                          1 Peter 3:8

My Prayer Today:  Heavenly Father I pray that you will open everyones hearts and eyes to those who are lost & hurting around us.  I pray that you will use us to change the way people view the world.  Let us be your light shining so brightly in this dark world. Let us feel the compassion that you are so familiar with Father.  I am so grateful that you had compassion on us and have given us another chance at life ... a life to live for you Father!