Thoughts on Compassion

Compassion Quotes

Compassion is the ultimate expression of your highest self.

—-Russell Simmons

My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.

——-Maya Angelou

If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.

——Dalai Lama

The purpose of human life is to serve, and to show compassion and the will to help others.

—–Albert Schweitzer

The Bible on Compassion

Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.

Ephesians 4:32

So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience;

Colossians 3:12

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For just as the sufferings of Christ are ours in abundance, so also our comfort is abundant through Christ.

2 Corinthians 1:3-5

If there was ever a time that we all need to practice compassion, it is now. Terrorism is an everyday occurrence around the world, depression hits the most unexpected people, we have lost confidence in our government, and life is changing so fast and the world is so brutal that we all cry for compassion. Compassion is a feeling of deep sympathy and sorrow for another who is stricken by misfortune, accompanied by a strong desire to alleviate the suffering. Christ followers should wake each day with a strong desire to ease the suffering that surrounds us. Compassion is the key. Let’s look at some ways that we can be compassionate.

BUILDING BLOCKS OF PRACTICED COMPASSION

Pay attention – Make a real effort to see the suffering around you.
Understanding – Seek to understand the plight of those you encounter.
Love with connection – Don’t just say, “I love you,” find a way to connect with people.
Sensing the sacredness – See ALL people as a creation of God.
Bring new life – As you encounter the others God gives you, have a true desire that they flourish.
Act – Ask yourself, how can I restore this person to life?

Prayer

Lord allow me to catch a glimpse of what life would be if we truly had compassion upon one another. Open our minds to the new concept of being a truly compassionate people. Lead us to see each day as an opportunity to help others. In doing so we can find a quality of life that we never dreamed was possible. Let us take the advice of the Master and engage in compassionate actions this and every day.

AMEN