Passion with Compassion

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as God, in Christ has forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:32

 

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.” John 3:16

 

“Finally, all of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind.” I Peter 3:8

 

At the Deacon Retreat, Pastor Melodie Jones Pointon asked us to share our passion related to our serving as deacons. I feel passion has many meanings and definitions. As deacons, the meaning that fit for me: to equip, encourage, and energize. We can share our vision for our role as individuals and as a church. We can have passion – a strong feeling of enthusiasm or excitement for doing our work. At the same time, we can be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ, God forgave us.

 

Thinking of Jesus and Passion Week, Jesus showed passion as he suffered, died and rose again so that we might receive eternal life if we repent and trust in him. How grateful I am for this magnificent gift.

 

Each of us can bring passion with compassion to our daily interactions with others. My mother, into her 90s, sent cards of encouragement and called persons on the phone to listen to their needs. I learned of a man, 99, who bakes pies and cakes to give away.

 

What talents and gifts can you share with passion and compassion? Perhaps you could prepare a meal and deliver to the home of a new parent who doesn’t have family nearby to help out. There are many needs that we can provide.

 

Prayer: God, help us to listen for your guidance. Give us confidence to use our talents and gifts with passion and compassion. Show us how to care for others and your world.  Amen

 

Lois Poppe