The news item we will look at in this lesson focuses on a matter of Christian responsibility that may not be equally understood by all. When do you help people in need? How much should you give or do to assist those who are hurting? Do we give with or without strings attached?

What does it mean to have a spirit of compassion? Compassion literally means, “to suffer together with.” God is spoken of as the “Father of compassion” and the “God of all comfort.” 2 Cor. 1:3-7 says, “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; [4] Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. [5] For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ. [6] And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. [7] And our hope of you is stedfast, knowing, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the consolation.” Jesus challenged us to act with compassion toward others, even to the point of loving our enemies.

In times of tragedy the sword of animosity is laid aside and the hand of assistance is offered. The focus of our own need shifts to those who are struggling with adversity. Our awareness of personal blessing and affluence is heightened when we see those who have much less suddenly suffering the devastating loss of what little they had.

Our minds race with questions regarding personal responsibility. What should we do to assist those in need? How can we assist with an assurance that our resources are not wasted because of the corrupting avarice of some dubious intermediary agencies?