I recently got hit with a compassion test.

You know what I’m talking about? When your path crosses with that person that for some reason you just don’t connect with naturally and who even makes you feel uncomfortable?

They might be from a different ethnic background, reside in a different economic class, or just be frankly annoying, but something about them (or maybe something in me?) makes it a challenge for me to be around them.

For illustrative purposes, we will call this person Steve.

My knee-jerk reaction to those situations is to run away–very friendly-like and politely, of course. But run away nonetheless.

The excuses are numerous. I’m busy. There’s important stuff to do. I need to spend time with my wife and my friends–those are important relationships. Or I don’t have time for people because I need to go work on building “my ministry.” (Ahhh!! That last one grieves my heart and is extremely embarrassing, but yes, I have thought that.)

But hasn’t God called us to love “Steve” as we love our friends? And to love “Steve” much more than our job and the “tasks” of ministry??!?

For me, love boils down to time. I can be very protective of my time. Usually it’s quite selfish. I don’t want to give it away. I’d rather keep it for myself.

But I need to constantly remind myself of a couple things and constantly ask for the Lord’s help and strength in them:

• My life is not about getting tasks & projects done. It’s about loving God and loving people, and that’s where my time belongs.
• Loving people isn’t just hanging out with friends and family where I have a good time. It’s about giving time and energy so others are blessed and encouraged–even if that’s hard work for me.
• Ministry is not just about spending time with the “group” I have been “called” or paid to minister to. Being a youth pastor and youth ministry coach doesn’t give me the excuse not to serve people besides students and youth pastors.
• It doesn’t “feel” natural to spend time with certain people. That’s okay. Serve them anyway, prayerfully try to show them the love of Christ, and be their friends too.

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