Be Compassionate

James 5:11 (New International Version)

As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.

Patrick Bouvier Kennedy was born prematurely on August 7, 1963. His father, President John F. Kennedy, knew his second son's chances of survival were slim. Young Patrick had a lung ailment and he was rushed by ambulance to Children's Medical Center in Boston. The President visited the hospital four times a day worrying about his wife Jackie while being concerned about the baby as well.

On the night of August 8, Kennedy decided to sleep at the hospital to be near the baby. Around two o'clock in the morning, the President was awaken and told that Patrick's condition was taking a bad turn. As the President was waiting for the elevator, he saw a baby boy in a room that was badly burned. He asked the night nurse how it happened, and how many times the mother came to see the baby. The nurse answered "everyday." He then asked for her name and while his own son was down stairs dying, the President stopped to write a note to the lady telling her not to give up faith, and to keep up her courage.

Then for the next two hours, the President kept a lonely vigil over his son until he died and then Kennedy wept.

If a mere man-even a president-can show love and concern to an unknown child while his own son was dying, how much more will our infinite Father in heaven take concern in us. Today in prayer, thank God that He loves you and His compassion is infinite towards you.

"Love is never lost. If not reciprocated, it will flow back and soften and purify the heart." - Washington Irving

Dear Lord we pray today that we would show compassion to those you bring into our life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.