by Victoria Heinecke

Called to Compassion.

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.”
1 Corinthians 12:1-6 New International Version (NIV)

This is a digital mural at the Holocaust Museum in Cincinnati, Ohio. There are four large panels, each with a collage of visitors who pledged to combat injustice with their unique character strengths. Many people have participated, and their images collectively declare their pledge to share kindness, understanding and respect. Situated at the end of an exhibit portraying one of the darkest moments in human history, these images are meant to provide hope that brotherly love prevails over evil.

The sizes of each photo represent the point in time each person has stopped here. The largest photos are not the most important people, just the ones who visited today. Eventually, as more people visit, today’s large photos will grow smaller. The montage of faces may continually change, but the message remains constant.

The face of Christianity continually changes as well. Countless disciples have come before us. We are born and live our lives, and we will join the Church Triumphant when our life on earth is done. Those born in years past are largely unknown to us today, yet God knows and loves each one of us.

Throughout the ages, the message is the same: God loves you, Christ died for you, and the Holy Spirit will guide you towards a righteous life. Someday, we’ll join those before us in Heaven, in the arms of our ever loving Father.

In the meantime, may our actions in this life be a reflection of God’s love for us.

“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.
    And what does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
    and to walk humbly with your God.“
Micah 6:8 NIV

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado