Zechariah 7:9-10
“This is what the Lord Almighty said: ‘Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another. Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the foreigner or the poor. Do not plot evil against each other.’”
This is a small piece of God’s message to the Israelites. As a human race, we have needed to be reminded to show compassion. And when I think about it, showing it and feeling it are two different things. I am afraid there may be times when I feel compassion, but do nothing. This is not true compassion, then.
Father God, I need to be more compassionate and to act with more compassion. I know you give me opportunities- I will be more alert to see them. Amen
Becky, transforming
Zechariah 7:9–10 These words from God to Zechariah define true compassion. They also show that compassion is about doing not just feeling. Be fair in all you do, be caring, and show no prejudice. These words are so clear and straightforward. These are our instructions from God. We need to be more purposeful in doing as he says. Prayer: gracious God, help me to be the verb in compassion; doing what you would have me do. Amen
Tuesday, July 19th, 2022
Zechariah 7:9-10
This is what the Lord almighty says, administer true justice, show mercy and compassion to one another. Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the alien, or the poor. In your hearts do not think evil of each other.
I am thinking about a person in my life who is easy to love and care about. This could be a good friend, a partner, parent, child or perhaps a pet. I Imagine they are sitting in front of me and looking into my eyes. I will say sincerely from my heart to this person, I pray that you will be happy. May you be healthy in body and mind. May you be s…
Zechariah 7:9-10 “This is what the Lord Almighty said: ‘Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another. Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the foreigner or the poor. Do not plot evil against each other.’
Justice and kindness are a powerful combination. Detach with love, a saying I learned in Al-Anon. When I first heard this phrase, I really had trouble with the concept. Once I understood the meaning, it was helpful. Kindness, compassion and love can work wonders when things in this world get out of control. Showing compassions to all is a gift and should extend outside the walls of our comfort zone. Kindness and compassion should be part of my daily interactions with…
Zechariah 7:9-10 This prophet echoes Micah’s admonition to do justice, love mercy and walk humbly with God. In treating the widow, fatherless, poor and foreigners with dignity we walk humbly with God. I think of the tragedy of so many children in this country who have and are growing up without the influence of an engaged and loving earthly father. They don’t all turn into violent gang members or deranged school shooters, but all are disadvantaged in some way. This is why I find youth ministry and Scouting in particular such a compelling calling.
Prayer - Father to the fatherless, guide my steps to show your love to young people without fathers. Let them see through the actions of Christians who…