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This week’s devotional comes from Steve Bavington, (CEO), as he shares his thoughts about what our value of COMPASSION means to him.
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. (Jesus) John 13:34
One thing that really moves me is when I witness someone showing compassion to another person. There is something about generosity and care that goes straight to my core. The word itself suggests a situation where someone is hurting — where there is pain or brokenness. Compassion is choosing to step into that space with love and help.
It sounds simple, yet it’s completely profound. I can choose to stay outside someone’s hurt and offer support at arm’s length. Compassion, however, is a genuine love that moves me to act — not out of duty, but with a pure motive.

One place I regularly see compassion in action is in our nurseries. Our staff show kindness and care every day — reaching out when a child falls, offering comfort when a child misses their parent, and creating spaces where children feel safe and valued.
When Jesus says, “As I have loved you,” He becomes the ultimate example of compassion. His selfless attitude and generous actions – especially toward people who could never repay Him – challenge me to reflect on how I live. They encourage me to step towards others with the same care and concern.
Point to ponder: Who do you know who might need a little compassion today? Why not take 30 seconds to reach out and send them an encouraging message.
Together, as the YMCA federation in England and Wales, we focus our work around the following key areas of work.
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