Fierce Compassion is simply seeing someone in the state they're in and doing something about it when they have a need. Sometimes that need is right there on the surface, sometimes the surface is not all as it seems.
From the definitions we read, fierce compassion: with bold, heartfelt, zeal, moved to do something... I just can’t fight this feeling anymore... :)
But for you timid out there: don't overcomplicate and shutdown with words like "bold" and "zeal"!
Becoming/Being a Neighbor requires us to feel, that includes rejoicing and mourning with those around us. Being open to them, even if it hurts, as Jesus did (Isaiah 53:2-6 Easy-to-Read)
Ecclesiastes 7:3-4 (MSG) - 3 Crying is better than laughing.
It blotches the face but it scours the heart. 4 Sages (wise of heart) invest themselves in hurt and grieving. Fools waste their lives in fun and games.
Romans 12:9-21
Care -
Romans 12:15 (NIV) - 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.
Romans 12:11 (NIV) - 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. (fierce compassion)
Keep it simple -
Romans 12:18 (Easy-to-Read) - 18 Do the best you can to live in peace with everyone.
Romans 12:21 (Easy-to-Read) - 21 Don’t let evil defeat you, but defeat evil by doing good.
My prayer is that we will no longer shy away because it "hurts too much to care" and that we will continue to grow and mature, as God means for us to, and not think "it hurts too much to change". All while keeping it simple and becoming a neighbor!
1. When you considered yourself through this message did you find you've been making Being A Neighbor too complicated? How could you simplify?
2. Did your definition of compassion change or grow?
3. Share some of your thoughts on "It hurts too much to care" and/or "It hurts too much to change".
4. Share anything else that came alive to you! ( or anything that helps to wipe the lizard-look-face from you :D )
