Jesus tells us “…Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you. Bless those who curse you and pray for those who insult you.” Jesus values compassion towards all, from our family and friends, to those we consider enemies, to those we know nothing about at all. In the case of people who hurt us, this can be a difficult challenge. Keep in mind that we don’t always know why people behave the way they do. Kari Jobe’s song “Closer to Your Heart” is about embracing an attitude of compassion. When we do this, we live more like Jesus did and can create positive change in our schools and communities.
Key Lyrics: I get lost inside this wonder / Cause there’s so much to discover /New dimensions of your glory / And I’ve only seen a glimpse / You keep drawing me, you keep drawing me / Closer to your heart / You keep calling me, you keep calling me / Closer to your heart
Questions: When have you experienced an unexpected act of compassion? When have you extended compassion to someone else? What did you see that made you extend a hand to them? How can you spread an attitude of compassion around your school and community? What kind of communities will Jesus’ teaching create? What is a way you practice loving your enemies?