Hurricane Compassion

Introduction:

Today we explore a powerful metaphor that resonates deeply within our hearts and communities: Hurricane Compassion.

While there isn't a direct biblical term for "hurricane," the Hebrew word (su'ah) can refer to a storm or tumult, capturing the essence of violent weather.

We all experience a “storm of tumult” during our lives.

And when other’s experience Hurricane like violence

We need to understand our relationship to others when they are suffering

Just as a hurricane is furious and destructive in nature,

we are called to embody a compassion

and love that is equally fierce, relentless, and transformative.

Our world is in desperate need of healing, love, and persistent action.

As we delve into the Scriptures,

let us be reminded that our compassion should not be passive

but should reflect the very heart of God

—a heart that sacrifices, gives, and persists in love.

1: The Call to Compassion

The Greek word for Compassion is (splanchna)

It refers to deep-seated emotions,

often translated as "heart" or "inner parts,"

indicating a profound sense of empathy and care.

Matthew 5:16 (KJV) Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Our compassion must shine brightly in a world often overshadowed by darkness.

Just as traumatic as a hurricane brings the flood rain of destruction, pain and death,

our compassionate acts of kindness counteracts the work of the devil

and it will bring healing to those who are suffering.

In Exodus 2:6, we see the compassion of Pharaoh’s daughter as she sees Moses in the basket and feels pity for him.

This moment of compassion changed the course of history.

We too are called to act when we see others in need,

allowing our hearts to be moved to action.

- Matthew 9:36: Jesus had compassion on the crowds because they were harassed and helpless.

- Mark 1:41: Jesus was moved with compassion for a leper and healed him.

- Luke 7:13: Jesus had compassion on the widow of Nain and raised her son.

Jesus showed us the way of compassion

He showed us the power of compassion

He did this so we will take His lead and move on our fellow man with a fierce compassion.

2: The Power of Love

In Luke 10:33, we read about the Good Samaritan who,

when he saw the wounded man, took pity on him.

His love was not just a feeling;

it was a catalyst for action.

Love compels us to step outside our comfort zones

and reach out to those who are hurting.

1 Peter 3:8 (KJV) Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:

In 1 Peter 3:8, we are instructed to be

like-minded & sympathetic, - to love one another, to be compassionate and humble.

This love is not merely an emotion;

it is a commitment to self-sacrifice and giving.

It is a love that mirrors Christ’s love for us—a love that endured the cross for our sake.

Colossians 3:12 (KJV) Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;

Our decision to serve Christ was not made on an island only for ourselves.

We are to be servants of compassion and love to others.

Romans 12:15 (KJV) Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.

We pray for those that are suffering right now at this very moment from hurricane Helene. We pray that their suffering will be relieved soon and that this horrible nightmare will be over soon.

3: The Necessity of Persistence

The Greek word (epimone) signifies steadfastness or perseverance,

often in the context of faith and endurance.

In Hebrew, (toqef) imply’s strength or tenacity.

Hebrews 10:34 encourages us by saying,

Hebrews 10:34 (KJV) For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring substance.

because you knew that you, in heaven, have better and lasting possessions.

You know! That you have power of the devil here and now—Pray!

You know! That no weapon formed against you can prosper---Fight the good fight!

You know! That too many people are bound by Satan

Bound up in life

Bound up their bodies

Bound up in their marriage

Bound up finances

Bound up in their minds

Bound up in fear

Bound up in depression

Bound up in deception

Bound up in worry

Bound up in the past

But you knew that YOU, In heaven, have better and lasting possessions

You are Free!

You are free to praise

You are free to have joy

You are free to have peace

You are free to love God