Have you ever been asked to do something, agreed to do it at the time, and then upon some further reflection realized just how crazy you were to agree to do it in the first place?  That is how I feel while writing this week’s article.  But that’s ok, because the topic is very near to my heart; Compassion Canada.  

There are many clear examples in the Gospels where Jesus had compassion upon those in need. Some needed a comforting word, some a meal and others healing.  When some blind men heard about Jesus, they cried out to be healed, “and Jesus in pity touched their eyes, and immediately they recovered their sight and followed him.”  Matt 20:34.  Why do organizations use images of sick children?  Could it be so that we see, then care, and be moved into action?

The compassion of Jesus was not limited to people in need of healing, it was evident with those who were hungry.  When a large crowd had gathered, Jesus said, “I have compassion on the crowd, because they have been with me now three days and have nothing to eat.” Mark 8:2.  How often do we find ourselves “hanging out” with our friends, becoming hungry and deciding to go and find some food.  I don’t believe your friends are sticking around for three days, yet how often do we spontaneously invite someone over for a meal.  May we be so moved to offer food to those in need, even when we don’t know them.

You may recall the description in the bible of a young man’s funeral procession.  This man was the only son of a widow who was now weeping, because of the incredible loss she was experiencing.  “And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her and said to her, “do not weep.”  Luke 7:13.  In our times of great loss, when we are so low, how compassionate it is for another to come alongside us, showing care, love and understanding through shared words of encouragement.   

These attributes of demonstrated compassion are summed up well in the parable of the good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37).  Let us continue doing good when the opportunity arises in our daily lives. For we will always have the poor with us, whether they live near or far away.  

The call to action, is very clear.  For at the end of our life, we will all give an account, to our Lord.  Jesus describes His return in the parable of  “The Sheep and Goats.  (Mat 25:31-46).  The part that stands out to me, is the fact that the ‘sheep’ did not realize that when they had fed the hungry, welcomed a stranger, or clothed those who were naked that “what they did for the least of these,” they did for Jesus. 

Barry Slauenwhite from Compassion Canada will be at CBC this Sunday.  In the next few days, would you give some prayerful consideration to sponsoring a Compassion child?  There is a child wanting to be your friend and waiting to receive the compassion of Jesus through you.

Harold Kress