Kindness and compassion
We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak… (Romans 15:1 KJV)
Receiving the sad news of the death of our friend Willie, I was reminded about the importance of lending a helping hand when the opportunity arises. His living conditions in the slums made it impossible to maneuver a wheelchair, and even the use of crutches proved difficult on the narrow, bumpy slum lane.
After entering his small dark hut and listening to his story, we realized that it must have been God’s leading that brought us to the doorstep of this desperate soul. Our visit and promise of regular care packages cheered him up and a broad smile rushed over his pain-stricken face. Teary eyed, he said that he felt God answered his prayers by sending us to bring light and hope into his darkness.
We were glad that we had heeded the nudge to go the extra mile, which ended up making a profound difference in one person’s life. Now that Willie has passed on, I am happy that we could ease his load a little bit through the years. It pays to listen to the still small voice, our God-given conscience, that often speaks to our hearts, pointing us in the right direction.
Though as believers we intend to love one another, we often miss opportunities to relieve others’ pain. That could be because we are unaware of others’ needs; or perhaps we are not practicing empathy. Empathy is the key that can unlock the door to our kindness and compassion. [1]
The highest form of worship is the worship of unselfish Christian service. The greatest form of praise is the sound of consecrated feet seeking out the lost and helpless. - Billy Graham
[1] Activated A Small Act of Kindness
