Yes, that’s a word!  Granted, it is a Greek word.  It’s a word used in the Bible that is translated as “compassion.”  This is the word used when Jesus sees people who, in Mark 8, have followed Him for three days and are hungry.  Jesus has “splagchnizomai”.  It describes that gut wrenching desire to help someone in need.  Kinda sounds like a gut wrenching word, too, doesn’t it?  Try to pronounce it again.  Perhaps, it might help if you imagine yourself throwing two pounds of raw sausage across the kitchen, listening to it slap and smash against the counter … maybe that is what this word sounds like!

Jesus had this compassion for the people who were suffering.  Oh, we may quickly say to ourselves, “Boy, there are people I know who really need to have some splagchnizomai!  They sure need to have a heart of compassion.”  But perhaps what you, the reader of my blog really need to know right now, in this moment, is that Jesus has splagchnizomai toward you.  He loves all who are struggling and are hungry.  Not just physically, but spiritually.  “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”  Matthew 5:3  Does God want you to remain weak and poor in spirit?  No, but He does want you to be dependent on Him.  He’s the source of strength.  He’s the source of compassion.  He loves you.  He took away your sins so that you can be with Him forever.

Dear friends, let us endure the hardships of life not losing faith in our Savior.  Yet, let us contribute to society in His name.   In all that we do, let us give thanks to God and glorify the compassionate name of Jesus!

PRAYER:  My dearest Jesus, My God, Savior, Lord and Friend, help me realize Your great compassion to me and to those around me.  Remind me of Your love when I wander and stray.  Keep me focused on You, for You have the words of eternal life.  Amen.