COMPASSION, THY NAME IS LOVE

COMPASSION, THY NAME IS LOVE

Empathy is the ability to stand in the shoes of others, to be fully aware of their situations while being absolutely sensitive to their emotions and needs, to proactively demonstrate sincere and selfless compassion.

In February 2012, Cory Weissman led the men’s basketball team of Gettysburg College onto the court for the last game of the season.  Four years earlier he had suffered a stroke that left him paralyzed on one side.  After years of rehab he was able to walk with a limp, but was still physically incapable of competitive play.  Before his stroke he had been a member of the team and the coach wanted to give him a few seconds on the court as a senior.  So Cory was nominated captain and led out the starting five for what would be his last game at Gettysburg.

Aware of his physical challenges and struggles, the crowd and the players from both teams greeted Cory with wild applause.  The Gettysburg coach gave him a few minutes on the court before benching him.

With one minute to go, Gettysburg was well ahead so the coach sent Cory back onto the court.   The Washington College coach then called time out and instructed his players to foul Cory Weissman.  For those who don’t know basketball, this was a generous act because it meant Cory would be given two free shots at the basket.

Cory took his place at the line, felt the weight of the ball in his hands, lifted it, shot, but missed badly.  He had a second shot left.  Again he felt the weight of the ball in his hands, lifted it and shot.  This time the ball flew straight through the hoop, and the crowd broke out in thunderous applause.

David Wright, Gettysburg’s vice president for athletics, wrote a letter to the Washington College president: “Your coach, Rob Nugent, along with his staff and student-athletes, displayed a measure of compassion that I have never witnessed in over 30 years of involvement in intercollegiate athletics.  Thank you.”

Sometimes we simply fail to ‘see’ others.  Somehow it’s easier to adopt a deficit model which allows us to magnify the failures and flaws of our fellows.  However, no one should be defined by their ‘life-limp’ or personal challenges.  Centuries ago, the abundant grace and mercy of Christ mobilized the atoning intervention that (thankfully) looked beyond our faults and addressed our needs.  His was compassion personified.  His was unconditional and unlimited love.  Today, we strive to emulate His agape.  Are you ready?

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING. Maranatha!