I’ve found the articles in this issue of Insights personally convicting, insightful, and compelling.
As I reflect on Jesus’ deep passion and compassion for people I think of my wife, Deb. God was gracious enough to offer me a life mate who constantly challenges me to think beyond myself to the needs of others. She’s a bit of a social butterfly and I tend to be a bit of a recluse. I like the familiar. Deb could be referred to as a relationship expeditioner—she loves reaching out to people in all walks of life. I admire her. Unafraid and undeterred she extends her hand and her heart as a resting place for others. Deb’s just naturally a lover of humanity and a respecter of people, all people. She continues to be my inspiration.
When I consider historic figures who modelled compassion, I am drawn to William Booth, founder of The Salvation Army. These famous words should truly set every Christian’s heart ablaze:
While women weep, as they do now, I’ll fight; while children go hungry, as they do now I’ll fight; while men go to prison, in and out, in and out, as they do now, I’ll fight; while there is a drunkard left, while there is a poor lost girl upon the streets, while there remains one dark soul without the light of God, I’ll fight, I’ll fight to the very end!
There is no person—none—who does not deserve to know the fullness of Christ. God chooses us to be His hands, His feet, His mouth, so that everyone might know the depth of His compassion, the breadth of His grace, and completeness of His salvation.
Jesus’ life and His words call us to look beyond ourselves, not living on the sidelines as commentators of life but fully invested in the salvation of others.
Who is it that God is placing before you right now? Whose hand needs to be grasped? Who needs to experience His unconditional love through you?
Just a thought…
