After the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, my wife and I led mission trips through a ministry that builds orphanages. After each long, hot day in the sun, our team would meet at the end of the day to debrief, worship and have a devotional. One the first night there, the missionary asked our team, “Where did you see Jesus today?” It was quiet as people looked around, not sure what to say. Then he pointed at a member of our team and said how he saw Jesus as that person gave some of their water to a thirsty kid. Each night the same question was asked. As the week went on, more people answered pointing out how each had cared for someone in need.
In Matthew 25:31:46, Jesus told of how He will return one day and sit on His throne to judge. He will say to one group to sit at His right hand, “For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me” (NLT). They didn’t understand or know when they had done that. Then He will say, “I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!” They were giving mercy and compassion to those who needed it, but didn’t realize they were doing it to Jesus. They didn’t see Him in those they were helping.
Hebrews 13:1-2 says, “Keep on loving each other as brothers and sisters. Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it!” You never know who God is putting in your path to have compassion on. Do you turn away when you see someone in need or do you see Jesus? Biblical compassion is being able to see Jesus in those who are less fortunate than us or are suffering, and to then be able to respond to them and their needs. You don’t have to go to a foreign country to find the least of these. You will see them every day if you open your eyes. Ask God to give you eyes to see and a heart to help.
Devotions by Chris Hendrix 