Choosing Compassion

This devotional focuses on Matthew 12:1-14.

Who would ever think that you would have to choose between compassion and holiness? In this passage Jesus makes it clear what he wants our choice to be, and it’s compassion. Sometimes, when we read passages like this, we can’t see what it has to do with us. We’d never have a problem with a man being healed on a Sunday morning because that’s what we want for our Sunday services these days.

When I asked the Holy Spirit what this has to do with me, my children came to mind. I miss opportunities to sit with them, play, teach, or prepare a proper meal because I choose what I view is more important in the moment. Not that my children’s wants and needs aren’t important to me, but clearly they can be put off for a more appropriate time. 

Are there areas in your life where you choose the box filled with what just cannot be disturbed? Maybe it is a Sabbath-like situation, like choosing to have shorter or no devotions at all so you can prepare a heartier breakfast for your family. Jesus said, The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath. Fully wrapped in humanity, Jesus was also the reason and embodiment of all things holy.

Today, ask the Lord of the Sabbath and the Lord of all things vitally important to you if there are places in your life that you need to choose a better way. It could be having compassion on yourself, like choosing to sleep in the middle of a workday. Ask, and see what comes to mind.