02.23.21—Compassion’s Garden!--James 2:15-16
My friend, may I ask you a question? Do our actions speak loud? How do we show compassion? We can stop at words or let the words lead us into action?
My friend, life’s a story, welcome to This Passing Day.
I’m M. Clifford Brunner
A number of years ago Holly and I converted one of our bedrooms into an exercise room. We moved in a weight bench, skier and stationary bike, put exercise charts up on the walls and installed a small TV so that we could watch exercise DVD’s. I’m pretty proud of that room. It’s the first room that you see when you come into our home here at Beech Springs. In fact, when I get home at night, put my briefcase down and hang up my coat, a glance into that room gets me kind of proud. I’m 59 and still able to push weights and do a Nordic Trac. The fact of the matter however is that just looking at the exercise equipment is one thing. All neatly arranged; of course it’s something to be proud of. However, using it is what gets you pumped. Just showing it off does nothing more that get you a bit puffed up.
The same might also be said of how we show compassion. We can stop at words or let the words lead us into action.
Here's a story: Bill Hybels writes: “Recently one of my friends was buying groceries and was frustrated when she dis- covered she had ended up in a slow-moving line. She looked to the front and saw a woman frantically rummaging through her purse; then the checker shouted, ‘You don’t have any money?’ My friend’s first thought was, ‘Why do I always pick the wrong line? I’m in a hurry?’ Everyone else in line began complaining. But then my friend felt God tugging at her heart suggesting that SHE pay the woman’s bill! ‘But, God,’ she said. ‘You know I hate giving up my money. Besides, I ...’ Then she looked at the woman, at her frazzled demeanor and her shabby clothes, and she imagined the children who might be waiting for the woman at home. Then she thought about all that God had done for her. Smiling, she leaned over to the checker and said, ‘Add my groceries to hers, and I’ll pay.’ My friend said she felt like she was floating as she drove home. In an unplanned, unpretentious way, she had opened her eyes and extended her hand, and God had blessed her with joy.” (Hybels, Making Life Work)
The Bible tells us that if we see someone hurting or in need and do nothing, it is like we have done nothing for our Savior Jesus Christ. Who among us would be willing to admit to that? When I look into that exercise room on a daily basis I have 1 of 2 decisions to make; I can look in and admire the equipment, embracing the look of staying fit, or I can put on my sweats and take 10 minutes daily on each one of those machines. I may feel good about what I can do but I will never improve physically unless I do the work. Are you compassionate for others? Saying so is good. Finding a way to turn those words into deeds is better. Words are one thing; but they’re kind of puffy. Actions really prime the pump.
We pray. Heavenly Father. I may feel good about what I can do but I will never improve physically unless I do the work. The same is true of my life as a Christian. I may feel good about know You as my Savior and King, but if I never take that feeling and convert it into action, it will be of little use to anyone other than myself. Forgive me Father when I am selfish and unwilling to tell others about the faith that drives my life and keeps me spiritually fit. Make me compassionate for others. Help me find a way to turn my words into deeds so that other my benefit. We pray this in Jesus name. Amen!
Therefore my friend, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry for itself; each day has enough trouble of its own. (Matt 6:34) This Passing Day. May this passing day honor our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and be a blessing to you and everyone you meet. Find a stranger and say hello. Don't let another day pass without your day blessing someone else.
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<thispassingday@gmail.com> From Beech Springs, God bless you for Jesus sake.