Daily Companion  | 28 November

THE COMPASSIONATE CHRIST COMPANIONS

"“Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35 For I was an hungered, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: 36 Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.” - Matthew 25:34-36

 Upon totalling Leslie's items at the supermarket, it was $12 more than she actually had. As she started taking things out of the bags, a stranger who noticed her walked up to her and gave a $20 note. Before Leslie could open her mouth to decline the gesture, the strange customer said, "Let me tell you a story." "My mum has cancer and is in the hospital. I bring her flowers every day when I visit her. She became upset with me for using my money to buy additional flowers when I went this morning. She insisted that I use that money for something else. So, kindly accept this from here. It's my mom's bouquet. 

In the hustle of daily life, it's all too easy to become preoccupied with our own schedules, ambitions, and challenges. Yet, amid our own stories and sorrow there's a call—a divine whisper—to turn our attention to those around us, especially the vulnerable. The vulnerable are not simply figures in news articles or faces in crowds; they are individuals with names, stories, and struggles. They are our neighbour who waves from her window, the poor man battling with cancer, the prisoners incarcerated for life, the quiet child across the street, and the weary homeless man on the street corner. Each one carries burdens that often remain unseen and unshared. 

As Christ Companions, our hearts are stirred not just to empathize but to actively engage. The vulnerability of others beckons our compassion, not as a fleeting emotion but as an enduring commitment.

Today, let this call to care for the vulnerable take root in your actions. Whether it's through a simple act of kindness, a listening ear, or advocacy for those without a voice, your response reflects the heart of Jesus, who "did not come to be served, but to serve" (Matthew 20:28). 

Beloved, identify one way you can lift a burden for someone vulnerable today. Whether it’s a meal, a phone call, a donation, or a prayer, take that step. Remember, it's not the size of the act that counts but the love that motivates it. Remember that caring for the vulnerable and needy isn't just charity; it’s embodying the essence of the gospel—a life of love in action. As you do so, you are doing so as unto the Lord Jesus Christ, the King who shall reward you in due course. 

Today’s Recite:  "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ." - Galatians 6:2

Today’s Morning Prayer:  Our heavenly loving Father, You have shown us the ultimate example of care for the vulnerable through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Help us to see those around us through Your eyes, to recognize the burdens they carry, and to offer our hands and hearts in their service. Grant us the wisdom to know how to act, the words to speak peace and comfort, and the will to be your instruments of mercy. May our daily walk be an offering of love to You, by tangibly loving those You place on our path. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Today’s Hymn: DEEPER, DEEPER IN THE LOVE OF JESUS

Today's ReadMe: JAMES 1 - 3