Last week I was a witness to my 15-month old grandson’s introduction to one of life’s perplexing relationships, commonly known as “sister.” When his parents came home from the hospital with Samantha Jane, she held his undivided attention until he spotted the red and blue tow-truck in the toy box. In less than a thought he was off to the next adventure, accompanied by his best imitation of a Cummins diesel.

Davey was so engrossed in his play that he didn’t notice his mother get up from the sofa and put Samantha in her little seat in the dining room. I happened to see him look at the now empty couch and then furtively scan the room. His wide eyes said it all. No mom. No sister. What’s happening?

“She’s over here, Davey,” his dad assured him. He toddled over, checked her out, and left. We thought he had gone back to the trucks and blocks, but he shortly returned, this time with her blanket which he “gently” (that is, as gentle as a 15-month-old can) piled on top of her.

We were amazed. Where did he learn that? He’s a basketballs and tractors kind of kid who scorns Barbie dolls and tea sets. Tenderness is very much in the embryonic stage. But could it be that maybe, just maybe, 15 month-olds are capable of acts of compassion? (I’m sure there will be a forthcoming study in Psychology Today to dispute this hypothesis, but just go with me on it for now, okay?)

I’m inclined to believe that my grandson’s behavior was a brief reflection of the image of God in which we were all created. The Almighty declares Himself to be a “God of compassion” (Psalm 116:5) and the stories in the Bible are an irrefutable testament to His love, mercy and goodness.

At Grace we have designated this month of November as a time to “Share God’s Heart.” There are several projects detailed on page 2 of Grace Notes that invite your participation, each one targeting those with needs that tug at God’s heart strings: the hungry, the lonely, the hopeless and helpless. But we are really counting on our church family to respond individually with compassion to those who God brings into their life every day. It may be as simple as bringing a blanket to some one who is incapable of getting it herself.

Come on, if a 15-month old can do it, it can’t be that complicated, can it?

Blessings,

Pastor Dave