Chocolate, Cornbread, and Compassion

I have never once craved a carrot. There. I said it. I know I’m not alone in this. Can I get an Amen?! As I wrap my hands around the mug of dark chocolate cocoa, it warms my thoughts, soothes my spirit, and my craving is satisfied.

If I make a pot of chili or homemade soup, I need a pan of hot cornbread to go with it.  It helps if there’s butter involved. Honey is nice too, but butter is a necessity.  Again craving satisfied.

Chocolate, cornbread, and my third craving? Honestly, it’s something I cannot eat or drink.  Compassion.  I cannot put it on a grocery list to purchase at Brodie’s or Dillons. I don’t see it on the shelf at Trader Joe’s or Farmer’s Trading Center. It’s a staple in my mind.  Every household should have it available.

Trapped in a season of criticism, conspiracies, and contentiousness, like Jesus, we see thousands of hurting hearts crying out for hope and healing.

When He saw the crowds, He felt compassion for them,  because they were weary and worn out,  like sheep without a shepherd. Matthew 9:36 

Whether I look in the mirror, scroll through my social media feeds, or turn on the evening news, all around me I see the weary and worn-out crowd.

How do we find compassion?

First, it’s something we put on:  Colossians 3:12 makes it clear that compassion is an article of christlike clothing.  As God’s chosen ones, holy and loved, Paul encourages us to put on heartfelt compassion.

Secondly, it’s something we do: Ephesians 4:32 says, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God forgave you in Christ.”

And finally, it’s something we are:  1 Peter 3: 8 says, we are to “be compassionate and humble.”

Can we put on compassion, practice it daily, and become compassionate like Christ? I’m willing to start in my home, in my relationships, and on social media so that my heart will be glad and the craving of my soul can be satisfied.

How about you? 

Let’s Reflect: What is your soul craving? Make a list of things that are weighing heavy on your heart. Invite God into your reflection. Ask Him to show you how that spiritual hunger of yours can be satisfied.

Let’s Pray:  Jesus, we rejoice that You look on us with compassion as part of the weary and worn-out crowd. We are grateful for Your mercies which are new every morning.  Lord, our goal is to be like You. May we put on compassion, practice it in our homes and communities, and may we become compassionate people offering hope and healing to all who are hurting. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

 

 

 

 

2 thoughts on “Chocolate, Cornbread, and Compassion

  1. Such a good reminder as the world gets noiser and more self centered. May we remember to pause and practice compassion. Share a cup or a piece of cornbread too. ?

    1. I’m learning that pausing before adding to the noise is healing for me. As I heal it gets easier to practice compassion. And I still owe Dion some cornbread so perhaps we can share a cup and a slice soon.

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