Pity vs. Compassion

This time of year has the tendency to bring out the good and bad in people. Some people struggle with their feelings and emotions during the holiday season. Others are excited and love everything about it.

For the most part, the ones who are excited enjoy helping people. They seem more generous during the holiday time. But one thing we should do is check our motives.

My Pastor is teaching on Jesus being the light of the world. Yesterday, he reminded us that we too, are to be the light. Matthew 5:14 says, "You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden."

These are notes from the message yesterday regarding pity and compassion:

Pity is....
1. Condescending- keeps people at arms length, you are only trying to make yourself feel better.
2. Sprinkled with guilt - there is no grace
3. Does not connect emotionally or Spiritually

Compassion...
1. Allows the opportunity to feel- you put yourself in their shoes.
2. Let's you fully identify with another human.
3. Requires patience, risk and HOPE!

The human being is the only species who can not survive alone. We were meant for relationships and connection. 

Do not have pity on anyone this holiday season. Have compassion. Pick up the phone and call someone. Go spend time with someone. Your effort, you being the LIGHT to them, could save that person and get them through this time of year.