Virtue of the Month - February
Compassion
Compassion and mercy are very closely connected. The Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy are ways we can care for those around us.
Corporal Works of Mercy
- Feed the hungry
- Give drink to the thirsty
- Clothe the naked
- House the homeless
- Visit the sick
- Visit the imprisoned
- Bury the dead
Spiritual Works of Mercy
- Convert the sinner
- Instruct the ignorant
- Counsel the doubtful
- Comfort the sorrowful
- Bear wrongs patiently
- Forgive injuries
- Pray for the living and the dead
A compassionate person is one who cares deeply about other people and their needs, especially those who are most in need of forgiveness, prayers, or help.
Experience the tender compassion of God by going to Confession as a family once a month.
Notice the word “passion” within compassion? Our Lord is passionate in His love for us. His suffering for our sake is often referred to as His Passion. He loves us so much that He willingly endured unfathomable suffering for our salvation. Pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy this month – “For the sake of His sorrowful Passion. Have mercy on us and on the whole world.” Never forget our Lord’s infinite Mercy.
“Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” Mt. 5:7
“In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us, to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.” Luke 1:78-79
These words are part of the Canticle of Zechariah, proclaimed after the birth of his son, John the Baptist. This canticle is prayed each morning during the Liturgy of the Hours. Read the rest of this beautiful prayer praising God in St. Luke’s Gospel, Chapter 1.
Compassion leads to action, even if it means simply praying for those in need. Prayer changes things.
And two blind men sitting by the road, hearing that Jesus was passing by, cried out, "Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!" Mt. 20:30
Many people cried out to Jesus to show compassion toward them, and Jesus listened! Look in the Gospels for other examples! Remember, Jesus shows compassion for us, too!
Valentine’s Day is coming up! Surprise someone with a random act of kindness!
Let us remember to offer our prayers to help our brothers and sisters in Kitui and Haiti. Don’t forget to also pray for all those who are assisting them in any way!