Today's Daily Bread
During the months following the death of my wife’s mother, we
received a number of cards and letters from the hospice team who had so
lovingly cared for Mom and walked with our family along the pathway of
loss. One letter offered thoughts on dealing constructively with grief.
Another said, “As the date of your mother’s birthday approaches, we
remember her, and our prayers and thoughts are with you and your
family.” These wonderful caregivers know that grieving is an ongoing
process that requires continuing help and support. They exhibit deep
compassion in all they do.
Paul’s words “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of
Christ” (Gal. 6:2) come as an exclamation point to his description of
life in the Spirit. In contrast to the destructive, self-centered acts
of the sinful nature (Gal. 5:19-21), the fruit of the Holy Spirit in and
through us is “love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness,
faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” (vv.22-23). The great freedom we
have in Christ allows us to serve each other in love (v.13).
A word of encouragement to a hurting friend can come like a
refreshing rain. When we continue to care in tangible ways, it grows
into a life-giving stream of healing and love.
Love is giving for the world’s needs,
Love is sharing as the Spirit leads,
Love is caring when the world cries,
Love is compassion with Christlike eyes. —Brandt
Love is sharing as the Spirit leads,
Love is caring when the world cries,
Love is compassion with Christlike eyes. —Brandt
Compassion is the capacity to put Christlike love into action.
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