Compassion is not manufactured or something that is conjured up. Compassion is a gift of God that is often developed through suffering.

Sunday’s sermon, on February 1, 2026, entitled “How can I help?”, expounds on God’s compassion to show us how to have compassion. Based on Exodus 22:21-27, the sermon shows us principals for helping others.

First, God’s compassion is our personal responsibility.

God wants to help others and He wants us to help others.

We may help others at a distance, but compassion involves actually helping someone that you know.

Second, God’s compassion isn’t aimless, it is targeted.

In regards to the sojourner in our midst, we are to be accepting of this foreigner in our community.

For the orphans and widows, we are to help them in their distress and not take advantage of them or try to take what little money they do have.

In regards to the poor, our attitude should be to help them with the needs that they have.

Third, God’s compassion isn’t theoretical, it is actionable.

We need to actually involve ourselves in our community and serve with the heart of God.

We also should pray more than problem solve, and we should respond personally to the needs around us.

Fourth, God’s compassion isn’t optional, it requires faithful obedience.

Compassion is not extracurricular, it is vital and should be our first priority.

The problem is, helping others threatens our resources and our security and identity.

We have to overcome our fears and faithfully obey where God shows a need, no matter who it helps or where the need is.

Finally, God’s compassion starts with His grace that leads us to empathy.

So don’t forget your roots and your past. Look at how you have been helped by others and then help others in return. You’ve been there before, do as has been done to you.

And remembering when you have suffered can help you be empathetic to someone who is hurting the same way that you have.

Show God’s compassion, and love people with the love of Christ.