Compassion Challenge

I've decided to embark on a new 40-day challenge, starting today. I don't know exactly how it will play out, but the book I'm reading, Signs of Life by Dr. David Jeremiah, sparked the idea. The premise of the book is that, in light of society's generally unfavorable view of Christians, it is all the more important that Christians display signs that Jesus has transformed us and that we are committed to him.

The signs Dr. Jeremiah outlines are:

• Dusty shoes
• Worn-out knees
• Rolled-up sleeves
• An open hand
• Outstretched arms

From what I've gathered so far, it's essentially a call to compassion-a call we all should heed. I have already been convicted. Through the years, God has given me compassion for others, but all too often I refuse to act on that emotion. I lean heavily on my myriad excuses, everything from the tired "too busy" excuse to focusing on my limited resources more than God's provision for the sick and needy, if I will only listen to the promptings He sparks in my heart of hearts.

Today is a new day, thank God, and I'm shelving those excuses. By God's grace, I'm going to refocus on what really matters, not to me-but to Him-and pray that eventually the alignment of His heart for the sick, needy, poor and downtrodden and my faith in action will produce an explosion of random kindness and healing deeds. I have to admit I'm a little scared of what God might ask me to do, or that I won't pick up His signals, or that I'll continue in my selfish ways. But fear is precisely part of the problem. Faith, not fear, is the only way to truly love others as Jesus loves each of us.

I'm starting now. Join me, please, and let me know how God's love shines through your signs of life.