I have felt their pain

Today’s Scripture gives us a glimpse of the compassionate heart of God. After He had 'seen' and 'heard', God did not remain aloof, but was moved by their sorrow and pain. The term 'concerned' here is active focus on his people. It means preoccupied, engaged, absorbed - all painting a picture of deep emotional involvement. The Message version says …'I know all about their pain'. It was the kind of knowledge and concern that would move God to action.

We see this in Jesus as he walked alongside people and many times stepped into situations of need and pain. With our fast-paced lifestyles, it is easy to 'not see' and 'not hear' people, even those we interact with daily, and yet, we all need someone who will believe in us, stand by us, listen to us - a shoulder to cry on, someone to talk to, to pray with.

Reflect

There are myriad small ways we can express love and concern. Identify one person who you know and prayerfully reflect on how to respond to their need or pain. Here are some suggestions of thoughtful action:

As individuals

• Make something special for them
• Draw pictures and decorate their room together
• Play a game together
• Cook their favourite meal and share
• Spend time with them enjoying a chat, prayer, reading Scripture

In your community

• Have you ever visited a children’s ward in a hospital and spent time with the children? Maybe you could try this as a group. Take some pictures, booklets, cookies (if allowed) and share with the kids
• Share practical ways in which you can show love and care to each other as a group.

Pray

• Pray: with and for each other over the things that are of concern to you.
• Pray: for practical strategies on how you can express love and care to the children and young people you minister to.
• Pray: for people going through difficult situations.
• Pray: for Scripture Union ministry in countries where they are facing challenging and oppressive situations.