When Jesus saw the crowds, he had compassion for them because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.

Matthew 9:36

 

Pastor John Writes:

 

Throughout scripture, compassion is emphasized as a fundamental virtue. God is described as a God of compassion, Jesus has compassion on those in need, and Paul encourages the Colossians to clothe themselves with  compassion, among other qualities. From the Latin, “compati,” compassion means to suffer with. It is the ability to recognize the suffering of others and to take action to alleviate it.

 

Compassion is a constant reminder that we are all interconnected, bound together by our shared experiences of joy and sorrow. When we cultivate compassion within ourselves, we open our hearts to all of the incredible, and wondrous, parts of the human experience. Whether it be through acts of kindness, words of encouragement, or simply lending a listening ear, we have the opportunity to embody compassion in our everyday interactions. By extending compassion to others, we create a ripple effect of positivity that has the power to uplift and inspire.

 

But compassion is not merely a passive sentiment; it is a call to action. It challenges us to step outside of our comfort zones, to confront unfairness, and to advocate for those who are facing challenges or difficulties. It prompts us to work for justice, kindness, and peace.

 

Compassion means getting involved. While others might avoid those who are suffering, compassion drives us to act on their behalf. My hope and prayer is that we might continue to commit ourselves to the practice of compassion in all aspects of our lives. May we cultivate empathy and understanding, to sow seeds of kindness and generosity, and to foster a culture of compassion that extends beyond the walls of our church and into the wider world.

 

In Christ,

The Rev. John G. Rights