Pass the Compassion Please!

James 2:14-17

"What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, 'Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,' but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if not accompanied by action, is dead."

Well that's a bold statement. Initially I think when people read that, one thought that may initially come to mind is: I thought it was by faith we are saved, not works? This is a valid question. A lot of...ok most...times with the Bible you have to read before and after the verses you are studying to keep it in context. This verse in no way claims that your works earn your salvation. The point of this verse is to emphasize the importance of acting on your faith. 

Going on a mission trip is often looked at as a bold, selfless act. Trading a comfortable, relaxing vacation to go to a community in such obvious need and spend your time working and helping and building relationships. It is emotionally and physically taxing, I won't deny that. But isn't this the point? God showed us the utmost mercy and grace. The verses prior (James 2:12-13) say: "Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgement without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment." 

Mercy is defined by Webster as "compassion or forgiveness shown toward someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm." The Bible says this triumphs over judgement. How amazing is that?! If God shows compassion to us, how could we not show that same compassion to others? I don't know about you but I know I'm not worthy of the love, compassion and grace given to me and I want people to experience the freedom and pure joy that comes with all of that. 

Proverbs 23:6-7 says: " Do not eat the food of a begrudging host, do not crave his delicacies; for he is the kind of person who is always thinking about the cost. 'Eat and drink,' he says to you, but his heart is not with you." Other translations say: "As he thinks within himself, so he is." I feel like this is such an important concept, especially for our culture back at home. Serving and acting out our faith through actions reveals what is in our hearts - and that is the point. For some, serving comes in the form of a mission trip to a third world country, yes...but it goes beyond that. These 9 days out of my year are very important but I have 356 other days to make a difference, to live my life as a light reflecting Gods love and the message of the Gospel. 

God knows your heart. He knows all your motives, fears, hopes and dreams. He knows when you need comfort and when you need humility. He has called us all to a purpose greater than the job or social class we hold on this earth. Greater than the material possessions He has blessed us with. Greater than the denomination of a church. He has called us to a purpose greater than ourselves. 

Mark 8:34-36 "Then He called the crowd to Him along with his disciples and said: 'Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the Gospel will save it. What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?'" 

Think of the ways God has shown you mercy and forgiveness in your life. Have you shown that level of compassion to others? Pick the most difficult person in your life. Show them the same compassion God has shown you. The first time...or two...or three...it may be extremely difficult, but do it. Do it with a heavenly mindset. Pray for the strength. Once you start living and thinking this way, it will become a part of you. You will show this love and compassion to others because of the goodness stored up in your heart, not based on whether they deserve it or not. Isn't that how God is with us?