Mobile Compassion

All of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous.

1 Peter 3:8

When the European Union approved the use of mobile phones throughout Europe’s airspace, a communiqué from the EU warned that proper cell phone etiquette must be followed. Some passengers “still use the aircraft as a moment of tranquility,” and travelers who are resting don’t want to spend hours listening to a one-sided conversation.

The invention of cell phones brought a whole new level of communication to our world, and when we realized we couldn’t talk openly in all locations, we learned to text. On the streets, in trains, in restaurants, in cars, and now in airplanes, we crave fellowship, even if it requires pounding little keys with our thumbs. We want to stay in touch with others.

As Christians, we can use this to the advantage of God’s Kingdom. The same drive that makes us call, e-mail, and text also opens our hearts to warm smiles, loving concern, and acts of compassion. Look around for a lonely person today, and extend the hand of mercy that Christ has modeled for us in His Word. It’ll beat texting, thumbs down.

We are the tangible manifestation of the compassionate heart of our Father. You and I are the expression of God’s love on this earth.

FLORENCE LITTAUER^a