Compassion Challenge - Results

Reading scripture, earlier this month, presented me with a challenge: Since Jesus is the radiance of God’s Glory (Hebrews 1:3), and since I have Jesus in my heart, what I am doing take to shine this light?? (Please see blogs of January 3 and 4.) It has been almost 3 weeks now that I have focused on showing compassion. Here is my report:

In Scripture, we read that Jesus went to the people as well as they tracked him down in order to receive healing, and even life.

What I did not do:
I did not go to the street people who are needy because I was not sure what I could offer them, in physical terms. I probably should not go by myself. If I want to do this, I need to go with someone who knows what they are doing.

What I did do:
1. I had two opportunities when I wanted to make a snarky comment, but reminded myself that, “Jesus loves this person, too,” so kept my mouth closed.
2. In conjunction with the senior’s home at which I am now a volunteer, I joined some of the residents on a shopping trip to the local Wal-Mart. I got to push a wheelchair with Lucy in it and help her with some purchases. With my focus on compassion, I reminded myself that I was there to serve her needs, whatever was within the scope of my “volunteer” job description. I focused on being patient, pleasant, and helpful, all aspects of showing compassion.

One day I saw on Facebook that one of my South African friends wrote this: “I invited a Zimbabwean lady (Memory) & her baby begging at the traffic light into church yesterday. A blessing for both of us. She left with some food and maybe some hope, too. "Everyone needs compassion... my God is mighty to save."
Hooray – someone is showing compassion!

Then, January 12 – the earthquake in Haiti. Extreme devastation, destruction and death. Rescue, recovery, and rebuilding. Now was my time to act compassionately – I could donate to one of the many charities sending aid to Haiti. But, as I watched the TV reports, I became rather confused about which aid organization to support. One of them, I am already a regular contributor, so that would be easy. Should I jump to get my chequebook out, or give online? It is now 10 days later, and I have not made a donation. What difference can my small donation make? Of course, many small donations add up . . . How does God want me to contribute? Oh, how I would love to adopt several orphans, or go there and help in an orphanage! The first is unrealistic; the second may be something for the future. God is telling me that writing a cheque is too easy; getting my hands involved in needed. Conveniently, my church is organizing practical donations for a group already working in Haiti with orphans. I will join their compassionate efforts.

Well, that is all for now. I am rather disappointed with the results of my compassion assignment. I did not turn into Mother Theresa this month, but did get involved with some seniors who had a need that I could fill. I could not go to Haiti to hold the orphans, but I will help with meeting their needs. These are a good start at shining Jesus’ light in the community and the world!

In February, watch for the next Radiance Challenge!