In the Church we often speak of compassionate service. The term usually brings to mind the gracious service daily performed by Relief Society sisters. But compassion as a quality of character is a many-faceted prism, catching light from many sources and radiating understanding, hope, sympathy, and kindness. It is the generous and unselfish offering of our time, means, energy, and loving concern to bring comfort to those in need.

Jesus Christ is the supreme example of the truly compassionate personality. He blessed the little ones, healed the sick, comforted the mourners, raised the dead, cleansed repentant sinners, wept for unbelievers. He even forgave his crucifiers, and in one final act of unequaled compassion he willingly offered his perfect life to atone for the sins of mankind. OUR SINS.

"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends. �" (John 15:13-14.)

Not only is Jesus the perfect example of compassionate living, but also he is our greatest help as we struggle to deal compassionately with our fellowmen.

Elder Marion D. Hanks explains how: "Christ will lift us up and help us to become as he is, as we do as he did; as we love our Father and give him our lives; as we love each other and all men, and learn to live and teach his word; believe in the worth of souls and let our lives be the warrant of our earnestness; mourn with those who mourn, and bring hope to them; understand and comfort those who weep; cry unto the Lord."

"And see that all these things are done in wisdom and order; for it is not requisite that a man should run faster than he has strength." (Mosiah 4:26-27.)

Being compassionate does not imply spreading ourselves so thin that all of our relationships become weaker. Husbands, wives, parents, immediate families�and some of our own needs should receive highest priority. Each individual must then determine how far he can effectively extend himself beyond these circles while still maintaining order in his life and charity in his heart. We can hardly comfort all of humanity at once; but those to whom we do extend our love and concern are entitled to our deepest and most abiding compassion.

Self-doubt hinders our ability to give of ourselves; too often we shrink from giving much-needed help because we are convinced that we have nothing to offer. But care and friendship are gifts of inestimable value, and no one should underrate their importance.

While some are gifted with innately compassionate hearts, most of us must consciously seek to develop compassionate personalities. If we are anxious to serve, the Lord will extend his Spirit to soften our hearts and increase our capacities to meet other people�s needs. If we are fearful or uncertain in our efforts but willing to help, he will open avenues of service. Offering ourselves in the service of others is a prerequisite to inheriting eternal life, and unmeasured joy and satisfaction lie along the way for those who are sincere and anxious to bring comfort and peace to those in need. Our own bright circle of love is never-ending; it only widens as we enlarge our capacities to serve.

****************************************************** And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God. (Mosiah 2:17)

I wanna be like Him!
I wanna love like He loved!
I wanna have "his image in my countenance" (Alma 5:14)

I would challenge you (and me) to LISTEN WITH OUR HEARTS. The Spirit will prompt us, and if we listen, we can be loving, accepting, and lifting others as we know the Savior was/is.

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