Scripture and Questions for Study and Reflection:

Read Luke 7: 11-16.

1. Today Pastor Mick once again used parts of grammar to illustrate some Biblical points. In what way are conjunctions important to our faith lives and what is the difference between “and” and “but”?

2. We have probably all experienced the way our emotions impact the way we practice our faith. Idleman says that one emotion of Jesus that seems to come up more than any other is compassion. What does compassion mean to you?

3. Idleman defines compassion as “a strong emotion that elicits a physical response.” Do you agree with that definition? Why/why not? Based on that definition, would you consider yourself compassionate?

4. How does Jesus show compassion in today’s passage? Can you think of other times when Jesus showed compassion? How do you show compassion in your own life?

5. Read James 1: 22, 1: 27 and 2: 15-17. What do these verses say to us about compassionate living? Who are the people in our world today that need our compassion?

6. In what way is today’s passage an example of grace? To whom might God be calling you to offer such grace to today?

7. Idleman explains compassion by saying, “When you feel something, do something.” He then describes today’s passage by saying that Jesus sees > feels > acts. How can we put this into practice in our daily lives?

8. Idleman says, “Jesus-like compassion breaks your heart, but it also moves your muscles.” Have you ever thought about it like that? Is he correct?

Reflection:

Lord Jesus, break our hearts and move our muscles that we might see the widows and orphans of our day, in whatever forms they take, and act with compassion toward them. Help us to see, feel and act the way you modeled for us. Through the power of your indwelling Holy Spirit, empower us to be doers of the word and not merely hearers. May the religion we practice be pure and undefiled before you as we care for those who are hurting and in distress. May our faith be alive and vibrant so that the way we live is congruent with your will and points those around us to you. We love you, Lord Jesus, and we surrender our lives to you anew this day, and every day to come. We pray all of this in your precious, holy and strong name. Amen.