A VEHICLE OF COMPASSION -- Part I

As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. (Ephesians 4:1-3, NIV). 

Monday, April 18, 2011, 9:00am

When I stepped onto the elevator, I recognized a passenger and exchanged pleasantries with him.  Altogether, there were three people on the elevator.  Before my friend exited the elevator doors, he said "Have a beautiful day!" to the both of us.

"You too!" I replied.

The other woman spoke no words and her body language reflected a tone of disregard.

I had a personal problem with the woman not responding.  In a matter of seconds, I thought:

• How could she not respond to someone who wished her well?
• What's her malfunction?
• She must be mute.
• Maybe she had a rough commute to work?

Life is challenging because other people's reactions can influence my behavior in a negative manner.  Life is good because I can choose to experience beautiful days and I do not have to take ownership of someone else's issues.  Life is abundant because each day offers me an opportunity to "live a life worthy of the calling I have received" through God.  (Ephesians 4:1, NIV).

Dear God: Due to Your calling, I am committed to respond to all situations with prayer.  Forgive me for being judgmental of others, especially when I do not know their status.  I understand that my personal demonstration of Ephesians 4:2 can make a positive difference in someone's life and I am poised to maintain peace.  Whatever the mode of transportation, let it be used as a vehicle for me to exhibit the compassion of Christ.  In the name of Jesus...AMEN.

In light of all this, here's what I want you to do. While I'm locked up here, a prisoner for the Master, I want you to get out there and walk--better yet, run!--on the road God called you to travel. I don't want any of you sitting around on your hands. I don't want anyone strolling off, down some path that goes nowhere. And mark that you do this with humility and discipline--not in fits and starts, but steadily, pouring yourselves out for each other in acts of love, alert at noticing differences and quick at mending fences. (Ephesians 4:1-3, MSG).