Pondering Point

Love has many facets, one of which is being compassionate. The Apostle Paul ties compassion to kindness (Ephesians 4:32) Peter ties it to humility. Being compassionate is an act of love – godly love. It is not merely a philosophy or Bible teaching. Think of it as being willing to offer a listening ear or lend a helping hand. Maybe it’s a short car ride or long plane trip to be by someone's side. It's going to look different each day. But there are plenty of opportunities daily to practice this Jesus-like love. And if it is of God, it is going to look like something Jesus Himself would do.

Ponder these four questions with God now
(and eventually a group of others):

1. Who was compassionate to me this past week? Thank God.
   
2. Who lacked compassion toward me? Forgive and pray for them.
   
3. To whom did I fail to show compassion? Seek forgiveness.
   
4. To whom did I show compassion? Praise God for faithfulness.

Prayer for the Day

Lord Jesus, as I think forward into the next week, stoke my compassion and humble my spirit to display love to others in a way that honors You. Surround me with others who love You also and enable us to become like-minded in service to You. Amen.

Worship Quote: Forms and rituals do not produce worship, nor does disuse of forms and rituals. We can use all the right techniques and methods, we can have the best possible liturgy, but we have not worshipped the Lord until Spirit touches spirit.
~ Richard Foster

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