Compassion.

Rather than becoming hard and tough in response to life's harsh experiences we should consider the alternative response of compassion.

Rather than making religion hard and tough like the world we should seek to make the world compassionate and merciful like true religion.

True religion is centered in the heart.

Do not let us harden our hearts.

But help us to show compassion to those who are suffering.

Life can make us cynical and bitter.

But contact with the Living God leads to Love.

Because God is Love.

And His heart is full of compassion for us.

So do not listen to those who say that God is our judge and that He punishes sin.

God is merciful and forgiving.

He does not punish us. 

Let alone condemn or damn us.

Fear not.

Pray to God.

And be delivered.

Photo Credit: Pascal Rey Photographies Flickr via Compfight cc