I really believe we’re in an opportune moment of time to see Jesus bring light to a hurting world in greater measure. Lately, I haven’t been able to escape this scripture. Every time I read it, my eyes well up with tears because it feels important.
“Don’t let selfishness and prideful agendas take over. Embrace true humility and lift your heads to extend love to others. Get beyond yourselves and protecting your own interests;
be sincere and secure your neighbors’ interests first. In other words, adopt the mindset of Jesus.
Live with his attitude in your hearts.”
Philippians 2:3-5 (Voice translation)
The farther removed we are from people that we disagree with, the easier it is to criticize. Surprisingly, Jesus surrounded himself with young men who were often prideful, argumentative and didn’t always see from heaven’s perspective. Yet, he chose to sit around a table with them and fellowship. There are so many opportunities for us to choose unity and to toss “us vs. them” aside for good. There is no hierarchy in the kingdom. Heaven sees each of us as equals, even those who think and believe differently than us.
As we learn to lean in and listen to the real cry of people’s hearts, Jesus will show up like only he can. Compassion is an expression of love. It compels you to respond; not out of guilt or obligation but out of the overflow that God has put inside of you. Some of you may be feeling like you’re running on empty and that you don’t have anything to give. Maybe YOU’RE the one you need to give extra compassion to right now. Your needs are just as important as those around you.
I feel God challenging me to not only see those I don’t agree with through His lens, but to also be part of the change I want to see. I once heard someone say that it’s important and healthy to have three different types of people in your life:
1) Someone who is pouring into you (a mentor, parent, boss, pastor)
2) A reciprocal relationship (a “give and take” friendship)
3) Someone you are pouring into
My prayer is that God will highlight these people in your life. We are living in a time where people are looking for connection, for authenticity, for loving mothers and fathers. You have something to give that no one else can.
And lastly, I pray that we would be continually reminded that we are not unified by agreement, but by God’s spirit living inside each one of us.
With so much love, Karena | 
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