He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap.

Psalm 113:7

Sharing compassion doesn’t always go the way we hope. I secured a brand-new, subsidized, apartment for a homeless young man. In the end, he declined. He still lives in a makeshift shelter in a secure area of our church campus. He helps around church, attends worship services, and enjoys Bible Class. The other day, he thanked me again for the church’s hospitality. He had come into a couple hundred dollars. “Let me know if the church needs anything,” he said. “I’d gladly pay.” Perhaps my compassionate attempt didn’t go the way I hoped. I still hope the young man will get off the street, but he has become an active member of our congregation. He exhibits a heart for helping and compassion. Don’t give up if your compassionate action seems disappointing in its results. God works the unexpected.

Don Schatz
Lynnwood, WA

Compassionate God, use me to show compassion to others. Amen.

Reflect: Don’t give up! Trust in the Lord’s plan, even when you don’t see it.

Read: Psalm 113 and Isaiah 55:1-11