Read: Matthew 19:14, James 1:26
I have a friend who seems to be a magnet for stray cats. It’s like the entire feline community has a secret communication system that says, “If you need help, go to her!” No matter how many cats she’s rescued, she always has room in her heart to love one more. Watching her care for them, making sure they’re fed, sheltered, and loved, is such a beautiful reminder of what compassion looks like.
Compassion is at the core of Jesus’ life and ministry. When others ignored or discarded the vulnerable, Jesus went out of His way to care for them. He welcomed children, touched lepers, healed the sick, and uplifted widows. In His time, society often treated these groups as burdens, but Jesus saw their inherent worth. His actions taught His followers that true religion isn’t just about rituals or appearances; it’s about loving and serving those in need.
James 1:27 challenges us to live out this same kind of pure and faultless faith. It’s not always convenient or easy to care for others—whether it’s a stray cat, a struggling friend, or a neighbor who feels forgotten. But these small acts of love are how we reflect Jesus to the world. You don’t have to be perfect or have all the answers; you just need to be willing to notice the needs around you and respond with kindness.
When we extend compassion, it doesn’t just transform the lives of those we help—it changes us too. We begin to see the world through God’s eyes, valuing every person (or even every creature!) as His beloved creation. So, who in your life is waiting for a moment of compassion? How can you show them the love of Jesus today?
Reflection Questions:
- Who in your life is in need of love and compassion right now?
- What small act of kindness can you offer to reflect God’s love?
- How can you grow in seeing the worth and value of those society often overlooks?