See, feel and move with Compassion

The Advent season is a time of waiting, anticipation, and reflection. As we prepare our hearts for Christmas, we remember that Jesus, the Word made flesh, “moved into the neighborhood” (John 1:14 MSG). He didn’t come to observe from a distance—He came to live among us, fully embracing the human experience with all its joys and sorrows. The Bible often describes Jesus as being “moved with compassion” when He encountered people in need. This phrase is more than a passing sentiment—it reveals the very heart of God.

To be moved with compassion is to allow our hearts to break for the things that break God’s heart. It’s to see the world as Jesus sees it and to respond as He did—with love, mercy, and action. During our time together, we’ll journey around our global neighborhood. Each day, we’ll explore a country in the regions where Compassion has partnered with the local church to make a difference.

As we reflect on these stories, we’ll see how they help the life, ministry, and heart of Jesus jump off the page, right into the world around us. We’ll open our eyes to our neighbors around the world—the circumstances, challenges, and victories that shape their lives—and we’ll see how Jesus is inviting us to step into their neighborhood with Him.

But seeing is just the beginning. As you explore your global neighborhood, we invite you to feel—to allow your heart to be fully invested in each of these stories. Christmas reminds us that Jesus stepped into our story—and we are called to do the same for others.

In the Christmas story, Jesus’ life and ministry and the stories of children you are about to read, we see that Christ’s compassion leads Him to act.

He heals. He shares. He loves. He moves with compassion.

This Advent, let’s not just prepare for Christmas—let’s prepare our hearts to see, feel, and move with the compassion that Jesus modeled for us.

Today, take a moment to meditate on John 1:14. Consider the incredible love and compassion it took for Jesus to enter our world. Let this truth inspire you as we begin our journey together.