Compassion Before Commands
“‘As surely as the Lord your God lives,’ she replied, ‘I don’t have any bread—only a handful of flour in a jar and a little olive oil in a jug. I am gathering a few sticks to take home and make a meal for myself and my son, that we may eat it—and die.’ Elijah said to her, ‘Don’t be afraid. Go home and do as you have said. But first make a small loaf of bread for me from what you have and bring it to me, and then make something for yourself and your son.’” – 1 Kings 17:12,13 When Eljah arrived in Sidon after fleeing Israel to escape the draught, he met a widow. Though she was young and beautiful, her face was thin and gaunt and it was likely very clear that she hadn’t eaten for awhile. In spite of her appearance, the prophet approached her