Today’s Reflection
GOD’S HEART BEATS with the pulse of compassion. God’s heart is not hardened toward the plight of the world; it is not callous and cold in the face of suffering. In fact, hard-heartedness, like that of Pharaoh before the Jews in Egypt, is the chief characteristic of those who are ungodly. God’s heart is moist. It is moved by the cries of those who suffer, and it delights in the beauty of creation’s flourishing.
—Frank Rogers Jr., Compassion in Practice: The Way of Jesus (Upper Room Books, 2016)
Today’s Question
When have you witnessed the compassion of God? Share your thoughts.
Today’s Scripture
Like a parent feels compassion for their children—that’s how the LORD feels compassion for those who honor him.
—Psalm 103:13 (CEB)
Prayer for the Week
A prayer of compassion from Mother Teresa
Lord, open our eyes that we may see you in our brothers and sisters.
Lord, open our ears that we may hear the cries of the hungry, the cold, the frightened, the oppressed.
Lord, open our hearts that we may love each other as you love us.
Renew in us your spirit.
Lord, free us and make us one. Amen
Submit your prayer to The Upper Room.
Something More
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Lectionary Readings
(Courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library)
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5 Comments
The Lord is near. In His nearness, I sense His compassion. His steadfast presence – a succor I cling to, even now.
Father – You know what the day holds, what You have intricately ordained. May You alone be glorified.
Grateful for church yesterday, and fellowship with God’s people. Grateful, too, for time with dad – he brought over a pizza, we watched some football together, and then volunteered at our local food kitchen last evening.
Grateful for the nearness of Roger. Once I return home, he quickly gets over being mad at me. He, too, is very close.
I sense God’s compassion every time the hands of the body of Christ do God’s will, every time the Spirit
moves us to take action. Yes, staying close to God makes all of this possible. Thank You, Lord that You stay close to us, help us always to turn to You.
Thankful for Jill’s post, her time with her Dad, and their time helping to feed others. Prayers for Marcy’s well-being, the restoration of needed services, and improvement in her health. Thankfull Julie’s computer or tablet is working, prayers for her hands and foot as well as safety at home. I pray Lou’s time with a friend is helpful as she deals with change. Prayers that Andrea and Lowell, Connie and her husband, Betsy, her husband, daughter, and grandson are doing well. The well-being of all the UR family, all God’s children is in my prayers. No word from Meesook who had terrible pain after surgery. Anneliese is trying an exercise bike, she has given up on PM. She missed an appointment because of bad weather and has been told the earliest she can be seen is May. There is progress with Erich’s effort to start a business and learn more how to deal with ADD. I am glad to help him with both. My sore throat seems to be getting better, very thankful for that. Thank You, Lord.
Compassion was ‘felt and observed’ last evening for me. While waiting for a room in ER- so many older folks, young children, all ages are struck with this rash INfluenza. The compassion I saw came from the nurses, and docs who took time, patience, and gave their help. When I left, my prayer was St. Luke’s Hospital–God’s Gotscha and will hold you!!
I sense God’s compassion when He leads me to those who can best help me. This has been the case legally and medically and I thank God for alleviating my pain, suffering, and worry.
Prayers for Jill and her father and their compassion for the needy in their community.
Prayers for Robert, his health, his success in helping Erich and his success with his railroad.
Prayers for Joyce, may her health improve and may the St Luke Hospital staff be blesed for their selfless service.
Prayers for Mary, may her mission trip and work be successful.
Prayers for Marcy, for improved health and quickly renewed government services.
Prayers for Lou, thanksgiving for safe travel and good visits with close friends.
Prayers for Andrea, may her back pain be relieved.
Spent the day with Megan yesterday. I joined the 2020 tip challenge when paying for dinner last night. I felt God’s compassion working in me to reward a kind and caring server.
Prayers and thank you UR
UR administrators: THANK YOU for adding the share your comments tab!
Greetings, I have witnessed compassion so much in my work as a nurse and because of my faith background it’s made me more compassionate. I also feel his closeness in my life a lot lately. I’m so grateful for all of your compassionate thoughtful posts here in the UR. They guide me though my day.
Grateful for the share button as well. Thank you UR. Prayers for continued good health for Robert and Erich’s success in starting a new business. Prayers for Anneliese and as she begins exercising without discomfort. Prayers of gratitude for Jill and Julie and the time with family. Prayers of thanksgiving St. Lukes and for all healthcare providers this busy flu and cold season. Keeping all those mentioned in Prayer
Blessings,
Rick
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