Day 36

Compassion

Act 36: Compassion The word ‘compassion’ simply means coming alongside suffering – co-suffering with someone. That can sound a bit daunting, but when you think about it, what a gift to be able to offer someone your presence and the feeling that you’re with them. Think of areas where you’ve suffered in the past, and find a way to share time with someone who’s suffering similarly today. “ Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”  (Colossians 3:12 NIV) Choose how to complete this act…

GREEN OPTION:Note down two or three people you know who are struggling at the moment and commit to pray for them daily. YELLOW OPTION:Talk to someone, even if you don’t know what to say. Knowing you are sorry for, and care about, their situation is a good start. RED  OPTION:Volunteer with an organisation that comes alongside those who are st

I am not in a position to volunteer in an organisation that comes along side people – I am already paid to to this. And today I conducted a funeral and so publicly stood alongside those who mourn and hopefully offered them some comfort and hope.

Today’s reflection said: “Think of areas where you’ve suffered in the past, and find a way to share time with someone who’s suffering similarly today.” I found it painful to lose my mum when she died in 1993. About a year later I poured out my anger at God during a retreat. When I went for a walk I felt as though Jesus was walking along side me with his arm around my shoulders and saying that God would be as a mother to me. Quite often when the person whose funeral I am taking has been a mother and one or more of her children are present I say that God is like a mother, as well as a father. I quote Jesus saying that he longed to gather the people up like a mother hen protecting her chicks. I have used my experience to enhance my conducting of a funeral. At least I hope it enhances it. People seem to appreciate my ministry,

I have started preparation for Maundy Thursday evening and after a long walk during which I was mulling over Jesus’ mandate to his followers to take bread and wine to remember him and to love and serve one another, taking a bowl and towel and washed their feet as an example, I was keeping my eyes open for hawthorn or similar to make a crown of thorns for Good Friday’s family service. I said hello to a few dog walkers and some people i knew, but nobody seemed to be in any need of comfort.

I am looking forward to a quiet night in with my darling husband. This year may be the first one that i have a Holy Week during which I manage to do some reflective reading and prayer for myself and not simply to prepare something for others. I hope and pray you have a good Holy Week….. Lent is nearly over!