September 26
Scripture: Psa 34:18
Source author: Lori Wickline
September 26
The Touch of Compassion The Lord is close to the brokenhearted. —Psalm 34:18
I sat in the Sunday school class surrounded by unfamiliar faces. Disheartening circumstances had forced my family to seek a new church. Still wounded and raw, I was struggling to keep my composure. The teacher kept asking questions about the lesson. All was quiet. I had taught Bible classes for years, so I finally spoke up. As the words came out of my mouth, the tears flowed from my eyes. It was as if a dam had broken and my heart was releasing the pain. The room was filled with silence. Frustrated and embarrassed that I had exposed my brokenness, I bowed my head and clutched my hands together. Suddenly I felt a hand gently cover mine. I looked up to see the lady sitting beside me with tears in her eyes. The compassion that flowed from her at that moment was overwhelming. I could literally feel God’s love pouring into me through her touch. His presence seemed to envelope me. The healing had begun in a simple gesture by a stranger.
Father, enable us to see with your gentle eyes the one who may need a touch of your love today. — Lori Wickline —