The Example of Compassion - Contemporary Example

Last summer, I received a call from a dear friend, Mark, who was going through a devastating time. His wife had just been diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, and he was struggling under the weight of fear and doubt. As he poured out his heart, I could hear the tremor in his voice, the uncertainty about what the future held. Yet, in the midst of his anguish, he shared a small but powerful detail.

Mark mentioned a neighbor named Ruth, a woman in her seventies who had always been known for her kindness. Without hesitation, Ruth began dropping off meals and offering to sit with Mark’s children so he could be with his wife at the hospital. One day, as they chatted, Ruth shared her own story of loss. She had lost her husband years ago and had battled her own moments of despair. Yet, through it all, she had learned to lean into God’s promise found in Romans 8:28—that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him.”

Ruth’s compassionate presence didn't just bring comfort; it became a beacon of direction for Mark. It reminded him that even in the darkest valleys, God is at work. Her faith became a lifeline, guiding Mark to trust that God was still present in his suffering, weaving hope into his heart. In that moment, he realized that faith isn’t merely about the absence of doubt but about trusting God’s guidance through it. And sometimes, God sends people like Ruth to remind us of this truth.