Let compassion guide us
What is your faith centered in? This is a big question and seems to be an important one as we work our way through the trials of these days that are filled with challenges on all fronts. Perhaps this is the time when we can focus on such an important question.
But this question, it seems to me, requires us to find an answer that goes beyond words; this must be answered by our choices and by our actions, taken in each moment of the day. The answer must give life to our faith.
When we choose to follow our Sacred Path, that path is forged by a Spiritual Leader who guides our steps, gives directions and supports us on our journey. And those steps, directions and support are based on a core belief. While there are signposts and helpful hints along the way, at the core of that spiritual compass sits compassion. The Golden Rule is the shared ground of all traditions. And that ground is holy.
Compassion is the hallmark, the touchstone that we hold onto in times of joy and in times of suffering. When held in our hearts it drives our character and reflects the character of our Guide, and when held in our hands it gives life to our faith. It is our faith. When compassion drives us we are in alignment with the character and life of The Holy One; because The Holy One is compassion.
Each time we offer a kind word or open a door to assist, we live that character; each time we reach out to someone in need or spend time with the lonely, we live that faith. We live in the heart of The Holy One and they live in us; and our faith and goodness flows out into the world and nurtures the wounds of the hurting like a gentle, spring rain.
Our faith, our compassion, births a renewed sense of advocacy for our fellow travelers. And that is the advocacy that the Divine has for us. All of us.
So, when tempers are short and compassion seems to have evaporated, when the world rants and patience is thin, when takers surround us and givers seem to be lost in the chaos, let us stop. Let us remember the core of our faith. Let us remember that we are guided by compassion. When the edges of the world seem as frayed as a well-worn mask, let us live as The Holy One who guides us. Let us live our faith in a hurting world. Every day. Keep walking. Stay healthy.