Day 3: Compassion (Prayer Guide)

Our Father in heaven, Reveal who you are.
Set the world right; Do what’s best—as above, so below.

Matthew 6:9-13, MSG

 

Day 3: Compassion

READ.

Read the following verses.  As you read, pause and pray over anything that sticks out to you. Do not rush. In fact, consider starting this time in silence for :30-:60 and ask God to be near as you pray.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.

  • What thoughts come to mind?

  • What words or ideas did the Holy Spirit draw your attention to?

PRAY.

Read this prayer, and as you read, meditate on any lines that stick out to you. Pray them again in your own words.

Oh God over all the earth,
may we learn to lean into compassion.
At the end of the day,
when all we know is how much we need compassion,
may we reach out,
and reach in,
find the grace we have already been given,
and share Your light with this world.
God as we confess our need,
give us eyes to see.

“Show us what you’re doing, so we can move and work together. Move where you will, when you will, in whatever way you will. Come Holy Spirit, and restore your Church.” Rev. Emily Swan

“God of herons and heartbreaks, teach us to love the world again. Teach us to love extravagantly knowing it may (it will) break our hearts and teach us that it is worth it.” Sarah Bessey

Kindle a global revival of empathy, justice, and active peacemaking. Birth a witness of Love that is bigger and better than we inherited.” Rev. Emily Swan

RESPOND.

Ask the Lord to bring people to mind who may need a warm meal or just a phone call. Then take whatever steps you need to take, in this very moment, to make that happen.

Transition into the next part of your day, experiencing the fullness of God in you. As you experience the fullness of God in you, as the Holy Spirit reveals what is yours to do, allow compassion to be stirred up in you as we experience the Kingdom of God with others.

Brandon Coleas above so below, fasting and prayer