Capacity for Compassion
How can you carve a little space in your heart, and resources, to share with those in need?
Ephesians 4:28
Those who steal must give up stealing; rather, let them labor, doing good work with their own hands, so as to have something to share with the needy.
Based on the biblical tradition, it’s no surprise that stealing is prohibited in the early Christian community. Yet Ephesians indicates something fascinating–people ought to work to not only prevent the need to steal to provide for themselves, but to enable their capacity for compassionate sharing with the needy.
This paints a powerful picture of wealth and possessions–their end is not just personal security, but how they can contribute to a broader community. It is easy to be protective about our resources that come from our hard work, especially as life becomes more unaffordable and vulnerable.
The wisdom of Christ and his community reminds us there is profound joy and blessing when we find ways to share, and give, even out of scarcity–for compassion is the heartbeat of the Divine.
How can you carve a little space in your heart, and resources, to share with those in need?
– Evan Amo