Dear Hearts,
As part of the “Beguiled by Beauty” series we discussed compassion. Merriam-Webster defines compassion as “the sympathetic consciousness of others’ distress together with a desire to alleviate it.” It has been part of the language since the 14th century and comes ultimately from Latin com- and pati, meaning “to bear, suffer.”
Suffer with me. 2 Timothy 2:3 (NRSVUE): “Share in suffering like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.” I believe it is not for the sake of suffering but “journey with me and help me through it so that it might not be so unbearable.”
We all have moments of suffering. We often, in our differences, forget and – at the worst – minimize that fact. Earlier this year, our Chat ‘n Chew group read and discussed The Choice: Embrace the Possible by Dr. Edith Eger. She reminded us that we are not to quantify or qualify suffering. We are to offer compassion. In these politically polarized times, compassion can be hard to practice.
Last week, we talked about “kindness” and “stepping aside” to listen to each other’s experiences that shape our views. This week we continue the “Do Unto Others” series, exploring compassion through Isaiah 11:6-9, “The Wolf Shall Live with the Lamb”. What does it mean in the context of our current political climate?
Join us in person at 1130 Balclutha or on Zoom and Livestream, this Sunday at 10 am as we contemplate the question. Invite a curious friend.
Yours,
Rev. Michael Cronin
