I’ve enjoyed chaplain work for law enforcement personnel for decades. On one occasion, I was riding along with a highway patrol officer who was a long-time Christian. He pulled over a driver for an infraction and ended up talking at length with this individual, a man whose life was filled with anxiety. My officer friend had the option to write him up or to give him a warning and send him on his way. As I listened to the conversation, it was obvious that God was speaking through the compassionate spirit of this officer.
Compassion is a great Bible word. It’s the tenderheartedness that the Lord cultivates in our lives, and it’s a Jesus quality. Paul tells us to dress up or “clothe yourselves” with several Christ-like qualities, compassion being one of them.
My friend showed compassion that day. Within a few weeks, a letter was sent from this weary traveler to the officer’s Captain commending the officer for his kindness. A difference had been made in a life. Let the Lord cultivate a heart of compassion in you, too.