You must be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate. Luke 6:36
“This command does not restate the obvious, something we already wanted but had forgotten, as an idea in line with our natural aspirations. On the contrary, it is a call that goes right against the grain; that turns us completely around and requires a total conversion of the heart and mind. It is indeed a radical call, a call that goes to the roots of our lives.”
Henri Nouwen in Compassion: A Reflection on the Christian Life (New York: Image Doubleday, 1983) 8.
As the pandemic persists, more of us are become aware of people we once greeted at church or in the daily course of life, who are no longer with us. It has taken their life.
In response, we can be tempted to retreat and move away from suffering. God help us focus not so much on our own well-being but to minister as conduits of divine kindness and care.
I am becoming convinced that generosity during a pandemic must be combined with compassion. As I explore this more deeply in the days to come, I am thankful God made this my word for 2020.
This “turns us completely around and requires a total conversion of the heart and mind” to live out. God help us be compassionate, by the power of your Holy Spirit, in Jesus name. Amen.