A New Covenant

In John 13, just before He goes to the cross, we read about Jesus bending to wash the feet of His disciples. The text says He “laid aside his garments,” putting aside the honoured titles of teacher and healer and taking on the role of a lowly servant.

In doing this, Jesus was demonstrating the attitude that we are to have as citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven. It is a way of life that calls for humility and generous love towards others—even when it comes at our own inconvenience.

Jesus spoke truly when He said the way up in His kingdom is the way down. After the disciples were discussing who would be the greatest in God’s kingdom, Jesus told them, “If anyone desires to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all” (Mark 9:35).The way of the Kingdom is contrary to the way of the world and confronts our pride.

The thing about Jesus is that He never asks something of us that He hasn’t first lived out. In His life and ministry, we see time and time again that He comes first in grace, not demanding right behaviour or performance. Even to death on a cross, His heart remained soft and yielded.

Jesus’ grace reveals the truth of His unconditional love.

In Zambia, there is a community called Navutika, which translates to ‘I am suffering.’ This community has been robbed of hope by poverty.

Poor sanitation, unsafe water and limited access to health care and education facilities have meant that, for a long time, the people have just been trying to survive each day. It’s been too painful to dream of a different way of life.

Recently, the local church partnered with Compassion and the tide has turned. Local church leader Pastor Alex says that he couldn’t be more excited.

“We aspire to turn our poverty-stricken village into a place of hope, opportunity and progress. With the support of Compassion, we will work with community leaders to create a better tomorrow where our children can thrive and develop,” Pastor Alex says.

All around the world, there is the potential for new life to bloom.

As people live under the new covenant of Christ, one of the ripple effects is that we begin to grow a heart of compassion. Scripture tells us that rivers of living water will flow(John 7:38), and where the river runs, life abounds. Just like what’s happening in Navutika.

From a place of suffering, hope is born.

Under life in the new covenant, God invites us to receive His heart of mercy, especially towards those in greatest need. As we wait in anticipation for the dawn, let's thank Jesus for His sacrifice and expectantly wait for His resurrection.

Reflection

In what ways do you see God’s heart of compassion being outworked in your life?

Prayer

Jesus, thank you that you never give up on us. Even though we frequently make mistakes and miss the mark, your patience and unconditional love keeps drawing us back. As we wait together for the arrival of Easter Sunday, we pray that you would continue to unify your church across the world. Remind us that in you we are one and help us to see each other with your eyes of compassion and grace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.