The BRIDGE of COMPASSION

One of the most powerful ways to show God’s love to another person is to notice a need and do whatever you can do to take care of them. Jesus walked almost thirty miles to reach out to a widow and her son. In this miracle story, we learn what made Jesus special.

starts in your

Reveal Answer

,

manifesting in

.

with your __eyes

Reveal Answer

the

around you

The

of compassion always

throughout the community,

resulting in people

our awesome God.

Discussion Questions

Getting Started

1. Why does God have a special place in His heart for widows and orphans (James 1:27; Isaiah 1:17)? If God’s heart goes out to these “hurting” people, then what should be our response? Are you doing anything to care for a widow or an orphan?

Digging Deeper

1. Study the different resurrections in the Bible (excluding Jesus’ resurrection). What are some similarities and differences?
   • Elijah raised a widow’s boy (1 Kings 17:22).
   • Elisha raised an only son (2 Kings 4:34-35).
   • Elisha’s bones raised a man (2 Kings 13:20-21).
   • Jesus raised Jairus’ daughter (Matthew 9:18-26).
   • Jesus raised a widow’s son (Luke 7:11-15).
   • Jesus raised Lazarus (John 11:1-45).
   • Peter raised Dorcas (Acts 9:40-41).
   • Paul raised Eutychus (Acts 20:9-20).

2. Read about the “compassionate” Dorcas (Acts 9:36-42). She was so deeply loved that God decided to resurrect her: “always doing good and helping the poor.” Why did Peter present the healed servant to “especially the widows” (v. 41)? Why did the “news” spread so quickly throughout their community?

Applying the Word to Life

1. Do you need to take the initiative with someone who is in need this week? Ask yourself this: “Are you aware of other people’s problems in your workplace, school or home?”

2. What is one way that you can comfort a distressed person? What can you do to help him or her to the path to restoration?

3. Meditate upon Colossians 3:12-15. How can Christ clothe you with compassion? How can Christ’s peace rule your in heart?