Conclusion of: Compassion-Sympathy in Action

True Christians are also concerned about the needs of strangers.  They gladly give of their time, energy, and means to serve people they do not know. Jehovah's Witnesses made up the volunteers described in the preceding article who helped total strangers. 

The Christian congregation is thus infused with an atmosphere of compassion and loving-kindness. Motivated by love, members of the congregation  are energized to find ways to serve. Because of various personal problems, orphans and widows in the congregation may need your concern and empathy. Could you help such ones to cope with poverty, limited medical care, lace of adequate housing, or other personal difficulties?

Consider a couple in Greece.  The husband suffered a stroke. He and his wife were taken to a hospital hundreds of miles away.  Their meager income, however depended on their orange grove being harvested.  Who would do that while they were away at the hospital?  The local congregation took action.  They harvested and sold the oranges, providing a source of income for the  needy couple, as well as giving them peace of mind.

Compassion can be shown in many ways.  For instance, compassionate Christians realize that at times the main thing some afflicted ones need is kindly  visits from people who will listen with a sympathetic ear, show empathy, and provide Scriptural comfort.  -Romans 12:15. 

Next time: Enjoy a Compassionate Atmosphere

From the Watchtower magazine, 2007