How would a loving, compassionate God look upon you? Do you have faith in Jesus? How do you express your faith in Him? - Daily Reflections August 3, 3016

COMPASSIONATE LOVE

 

The story of the Canaanite woman portrays a character of confidence. Confidence enables us to see, to follow what is happening in our lives and how God guides and leads everything towards good. In this spirit of confidence, we do not allow ourselves to be shaken by difficulties.

    This woman experienced lots of sufferings. Her daughter was tormented by a demon. When someone we love is in a painful situation, we are hurt, too. When someone we love dies, a part of us dies, too. When she made an attempt to see Jesus, the disciples sent her away. She experienced a deep sense of rejection. But her love for her daughter and deep faith in God gave her the power to humbly beg for help. She has confidence that God will never abandon her. She knows that God’s love is more powerful than her sorrows. This is her faith.

       In this experience of brokenness, the woman sees hope. She never allows the pain and suffering to destroy her, for she believes that there is a God who will never stop loving her. She knows that God goes with her, takes care of her, and frees her from all her fears. She believes that God is a compassionate God. Her humble request enters into the depths of the heart of Jesus. He clearly understands what takes place in the heart of the woman. He sees Himself in the woman. Their hearts are united because both hearts are compassionate. Jesus sees her deep faith in God.

       Henry Nouwen says, “Compassion asks us to go where it hurts, to enter into the places of pain, to share in brokenness, fear, confusion and anguish. Compassion challenges us to cry out with those in misery, to mourn with those who are lonely, to weep with those in tears...”

       Amidst the sufferings in our lives, we open our hearts to Jesus’ love. He touches our aching hearts, embraces our weeping souls, and empowers and strengthens us when we are in despair. This is also our calling — to be compassionate like Jesus. Fr. Alex Balatbat

 

REFLECTION QUESTIONS: How would a loving, compassionate God look upon you? Do you have faith in Jesus? How do you express your faith in Him?

 

Jesus, allow me to walk with You, to share my life with You, and to see myself as Your companion. Help me to know God as You know Him. Amen.