In the
wake of the shooting at an elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut, many
people have felt strongly compelled to help. Some donated blood for the
injured, some provided free lunches and coffee at their restaurants for
workers. Others wrote letters of comfort or just gave hugs. Some sent gifts of
money and teddy bears for the children; others offered counseling. People found
ways to serve according to their personalities, abilities, and resources.
A
story in the Bible about Joseph tells how he used his skills to play an
important role in helping people survive a 7-year famine (Gen. 41:53-54). In
his case, he could prepare beforehand because he knew a difficult time was
coming. After Joseph warned Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, that the lean years
were coming, Pharaoh put him in charge of the 7-year preparation time. Joseph
used wisdom and discernment from God to get his country ready (41:39). Then,
when “the famine was over all the face of the earth, . . . Joseph opened all
the storehouses” (v.56). He was even able to help his own family (45:16-18).
These stories show the heart of God for the world. He has prepared us and made us who we are that we might care for others in whatever way He leads us.
Compassion offers whatever is necessary to heal. (RBC)
