One of the key characteristics of learners in Lutheran Schools is their capacity to be compassionate. Like most things in life, our inclination to compassion grows as we encounter different experiences, perspectives and wisdom traditions. The more we enter into the humanity of others, the more compassionate we become.

Our Christian tradition emphasizes that each person is created in God’s image and deserves the dignity and respect that comes from sharing the nature of God. It’s easy to see that our creativity and love are things that come from God. He created all things and the bible says that ‘God is love’. What is less obvious is that God is described as ‘compassionate and gracious’ (Exodus 34:6) and therefore we are designed for a life of compassion and grace as well.

Compassion begins with a worldview or mindset that is alert to injustice, inequity and the needs of others that stirs a response to make a difference. Compassion is not passive; it is lived through care, service and advocacy. Some of us are natural caregivers and find it easy to come alongside those who are in need. Others of us enjoy serving in ways that provide for better systems, standards and support of those on the front line. Still others have the gifts and passion to confront entrenched bias as they voice the concerns of those who are powerless. All these things make us more human and more a reflection of God.

At Faith, all are encouraged to grow in compassion. Our partnership with ALWS is one obvious way that we live our compassion, and our support of events such as this week’s ‘Walk My Way’ is a good example. It is our prayer that we are know as people who are compassionate and gracious as we serve each other.

Blessings

Pastor Greg