True Compassion Begins At Home
BRD REFLECTION 2025
(Daisy Ong from Companions in Christ Facilitator)
READ:
The following verses from Isaiah 58 stood out to me:
v4 “What good is fasting when you keep on fighting and quarrelling? This kind of fasting will never get you anywhere with me.”
v7 “Share your food with the hungry… and do not hide from relatives who need your help.”
v11 “The Lord will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength.”
OBSERVE:
During the reading, I was convicted by verse 4 about my outward show of religion that contradicted my inner attitude of anger and by verse 7, which reminded me to show true compassion and care for my own family.
APPLY:
My mum was recently admitted to the hospital for a life-threatening condition, and our family went through an emotional rollercoaster battling new issues almost daily. It was a challenge managing Mum’s care, attending to Dad’s needs, and coping with the emotional strain of making life-critical treatment decisions for Mum.
My tolerance with Dad was also much lower than usual, worsened by long hours together and fatigue. To cope, I started finding excuses to go elsewhere — to hide — just to avoid being in the same space with him and prevent friction.
I attend BSF and spiritual formation courses. I serve at church and volunteer at outreach events. I also fast regularly during Lent and 40.Day Prayer. Yet, God does not desire these outward displays of religion — a checklist of good Christian duties. Rather, He delights in true fasting — when I show genuine compassion and care, especially to my own family, my own flesh and blood (NIV).
While Dad is not an easy person to be with, he too is struggling to adjust and to find his way in caring for Mum. Instead of hiding or letting anger and frustration take root, I need to ask: how can I be a true disciple of Christ, partnering Dad on this journey of caregiving, and showing him true compassion and care?
DO:
I will take active steps to be more present with Dad — to listen to him and to show genuine compassion. While I may not agree with his methods, I will learn to release control and trust God, who has promised to continually guide me, give me water when I am dry, and restore my strength (v11).
PRAY:
Dear Lord, thank You for Your revelation, and forgive me for not being truly obedient. Grant me Your continual guidance, compassion, patience, and strength to care sincerely — not hide — from Dad and the people You have placed in my path. I pray all this in Jesus’ most mighty name. Amen.
