DEVOTIONAL:
MAIN SCRIPTURE: Matthew 25:35-36, 40 (NIV) 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ 40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’
Life can get hectic with to-do lists, deadlines, and personal pursuits. It's all too easy to get caught up in our own world, forgetting that there are people around us who are hurting and in need. Jesus challenges us to step out of our comfort zones and look beyond ourselves in Matthew 25. He tells us that when we extend our hearts and hands to those who are hungry, thirsty, lonely, or sick, we are not just doing a good deed; we are serving Him directly.
You see, compassion isn't just a feeling, it's an action. It's a deliberate choice to empathise with someone's pain and then do something to ease it. It's more than just saying, "I'm sorry you are going through this." It's saying, "I'm here with you, and I want to help."
So why is this so important? Because a heart full of compassion reflects the heart of Jesus Himself.
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, open our eyes to see the needs around us. Fill our hearts with love that moves us to action. May we serve others as if we are serving You. In Jesus' name, Amen.
ACTION STEP:
Today, identify one person who has a need. Take the first step to meet that need, whether it's offering food, clothing, or simply your time and attention.