It is easy to be frustrated with people that do unkind things or things that go against God. Although there is always room for compassion for those that seem to lack it. Just as Jesus had compassion on us. I recently was told a story of a woman who had said horrible things to another individual. At first, I was angry as I was told this story. Then, I was told of this seemingly cruel individual’s life. This woman came from a very broken home, followed by a series of poor choices and a broken relationship with someone who was supposed to love her. My anger began to soften with compassion. For this woman was a woman that was hurting and was deeply in need of God. Have we too made our own series of sinful mistakes? We too need God! God shows us compassion by being there for all of us and offering the gift of forgiveness and salvation. Though this woman’s words were still wrong and hurtful; it also helped me realize that I should be praying for her. For God can work in her heart. Sometimes we cannot see past the person’s choices far enough, to pray for their hearts. Though it is always best to just pray for them. Though it is still wrong, maybe there is a story through their meanness. Maybe they need compassion and to be shown how to be kind, to be shown what love looks like. Though it is hard to be kind, to unkind people, we must see as Jesus does. For anger fuels fire and more hurt. Though the heart of compassion opens up the possibility of positive change. May we pray, even when it is hard, for people that wrong us. May we pray for eyes of compassion, for those that seem to lack it. May we trust God with His ability to change hearts, even when they seem unchangeable. For a compassionate heart like Jesus’ allows us not to share in their bitterness and set an example of love.

Erin Fitts-Brower 

Luke 23:34 NIV

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing. And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.