The penultimate in our series of Lent Devotions comes from Niall McConkey, ReStore Impact Manager.
We read in Matthew 9 v 36: “When he (Jesus) saw the crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless like sheep without a shepherd.”
As we look towards Easter and remember the sacrifice of Jesus and our need for Him in our lives, we also reflect on His life and example. The love and compassion he had for the poor, the sick, the outcast and the ostracized is a challenge for us to also have love and compassion for everyone.
What I love most about working for Habitat through ReStore is the people. To have the opportunity to work with people as volunteers, customers, donors and staff allows us to help people from all backgrounds, abilities, and in some cases difficult experiences.
To support someone and see them grow in confidence and self-esteem to the point where they can get into employment. To take time for someone who has lost a loved one and having to clear their home full of memories. To help someone who has nothing due to their difficult circumstances to make their house a home. To give someone who has made mistakes a new opportunity.
We live in a world that is increasingly judgemental, unforgiving and less tolerant of those who are different. Jesus showed us that we should love and care for all people regardless and show the fruits of the spirit in word and action.
Ultimately, we all need Jesus to be our Shepherd, but as His followers, we have the opportunity and the responsibility to help those who are harassed and helpless in this world. As we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ at Easter let us pray for more compassion and love for those we meet wherever we find ourselves.
