Things upper-eastside likes Explore more popular stuff on Tumblr →

‘Let us not underestimate how hard it is to be compassionate. Compassion is hard because it requires the inner disposition to go with others to the place where they are weak, vulnerable, lonely and broken. What we desire most is to do away with suffering by fleeing from it or finding a quick cure for it’ - Henri Nouwen

Tears started welling up in my eyes when I came across this quote today. I couldn’t help thinking about some of the kids I’ve met at work, those who come from broken families and those who find themselves in a quagmire of problems due to financial issues.

I felt so helpless upon finding myself to be unable to relate back to them.. because I have never known that sort of destituteness or brokenness. My own fires of sorrow have been of a different type altogether. I may have lost my earthly father, I’ve had my fair share of struggles and nights where I’ve cried myself to sleep over it; but I have never been in want of love. I found an inexhaustible well of love in my heavenly Father. I have been lifted up, redeemed and made whole again. Yet, many of these kids don’t know You.. I wish I could sweep them up, embrace them and have them feel Your love, to know that they are loved beyond measure, to be in full view of the hope I’ve found in Christ.

‘Break my heart for what breaks Yours. Everything I am for Your kingdom’s cause’.

You have showed me the first line so deeply. Father, please also show me what is to come next.