Jesus, being our example of "The Man", was a man of compassion. Today's verse even cemented this in John 15 when He commanded us to love each other like He loves us. Wow. Now, that's a perspective worth something special. On my best days, I see people a little more like He does. Instead of lusting, I would pray for them. I would hope for their success in being strong and pure as a child of God.
Loving each other like He loves us is an invitation into intimacy and power. It's a doorway into relationship that is constructive, satisfying, and meaningful. It's a medium for making a difference and experiencing lasting change. Doesn't this stir the fire in your bones? Doesn't this strike a chord with you? Doesn't this kindle a longing deep within? We want this. We hope for this. We count on this to be not only possible, but true!! There is a life that we can participate in that is grand and transcending of the muck and mire of the daily grind. There is purpose in cooperating with the King in this.
Jesus really does care for us. He actually can sympathize with our weakness. He is the perfect provider for our every need and wanting. And He really knows what He is doing!
We should be practicing a life of prayer. And like we mentioned last week, we should even use words sometimes. It's a life of simple, honest connection to our Father. As we constantly connect, we are being filled and led by His Spirit. And the Spirit will nudge us into these divinely orchestrated encounters and relationships to participate in. Just as He is Kingdom minded and wanting nothing more than to bring His people into an eternal relationship with Himself, we can be encouraged to adopt this same attitude and perspective. It's that important.
One notable thing about compassion, is that it seemed to "interrupt" Jesus schedule. Now, I know, one cannot truly interrupt the Lord, but it's our finite understanding and application of this truth to our lives that I'm attempting to describe. Just as needs suddenly appeared in Jesus' walk, they will certainly appear in ours. We should be prepared to heed the Spirit's stirring to show compassion or meet a need. I don't believe every need is meant to be met by one particular disciple, but I would believe that every disciple has very specific needs he or she can impact. On the flip side, have you ever gone to minister to someone, only to find they surprisingly minister to you? Oh, how humbling and powerful this truth is! Again, I repeat, He really knows how to reach His people. He even knows what's best for me! Can I believe that? Even if my busy schedule or pursuit of a goal is "interrupted"?
Jesus changed lives by being compassionate. He made a difference in this world. He says we can do the same. He's counting on us. We've got one shot at this. Who's in?
