Today @ The Gathering

FightBack_IconToday @ The Gathering we talked about compassion.  There’s an Old Testament reference in the book of Amos where the shepherd fought for the sheep even though he was only going to be able to save two legs or the piece of an ear.  What a beautiful imagery of how far the love of God extends even when He’s seen that the case is hopeless.

We talked about the seven sounds of apathy.  When you hear these sounds you know that your family, organization, or movement is drifting toward irrelevance and ultimately death.  Some of the things we hear apathy say are:

  • “They should know better.”
  • “They made their own bed; let them lie in it.”
  • “They are just that way; they’ll never change.”
  • “I have my own problems to worry about; why should I worry about anyone else?”
  • “It’s my money; I’ll do as I please.”
  • “I’m too busy to be bothered.”
  • “God helps those who help themselves.  That’s why God loves me; because I help myself.”

We talked about the power of compassion.  If you’re a follower of Jesus Christ, the first evidence is generosity.  That generosity is motivated by the love of God poured out in our hearts.

So as you move forward through your week remember, people matter more than things, plans, businesses, organizations, and policy manuals.  Show compassion to people.  Do it consistently, do it form the heart, do it in unexpected ways, and you’ll have a bright future.