The couriers went out hurriedly by order of the king, and the decree was issued in Susa the citadel. And the king and Haman sat down to drink, but the city of Susa was thrown into confusion.
Esther 3:15
Lord, there is so much going on in the world around me. There are wars raging on two continents, social and political unrest across many nations, dreadful storms ravaging communities, and cities plagued with crime and violence. To say that our world is in the throes of confusion is an understatement. Across the airwaves news sources speak of this turmoil as if it is common and everyday. Frankly, society seems to thrive off of the sensational.
To my disappointment, I can see the impact that this constant bombardment of death and destruction is having on me. What years ago would have shocked me to hear coming from my television screen now only solicits a “hmmm” or, in some cases, a yawn. I confess that I am becoming numb to the happenings, being conditioned by the world to accept this havoc as normal.
Well, today Lord, I resist that unction. I declare to You that I don’t want to be that person who is not filled with compassion and empathy for those who are hurting. Even as Christ carried the weight of my sorrows, I choose to carry the weight of the sorrows of my fellow travelers. Like that Good Samaritan, I cannot turn a blind eye to the suffering of those around me. Instead, I want to be used by You to pick them up and make a difference.
Use me Lord to be that person today. Help me not to just go on as if nothing is happening around me. Instead, help me to rise to the occasion and meet the challenge of the moment, that those with whom I come into contact with, directly or indirectly, might know that You see them, and through me, are meeting their needs to Your glory in Jesus’ Name. Amen.