MOVED WITH COMPASSION

As the sun set on Friday, August 22, Seventh-day Adventists around the world welcomed the holy Sabbath, a sacred memorial of Creation and God’s enduring covenant with His people (Genesis 2:1-3; Exodus 20:8-11). Joining the global church, the Dubai Central Seventh-day Adventist Church, worshipping at the Holy Trinity Compound in Oud Metha, gathered in a spirit of worship, fellowship, and renewed commitment to Christ.

The Sabbath service began with inspiring hymns, worship through giving, and the Sabbath School lesson review titled “The Power of Christ’s Resurrection,” based on 1 Corinthians 15:14-17, reminding the congregation that Christ’s resurrection is the foundation of the Christian faith and the believer’s hope of eternal life.

Sister Michelle Buen shared the children’s story on God’s creation and His unfailing love, reminding the children that everything God made was “very good” (Genesis 1:31) and that His love for humanity is everlasting. The children were encouraged to appreciate God’s creation, care for it, and remember that they are wonderfully made and deeply loved by their Creator (Psalm 139:14; John 3:16).

The fourth Sabbath of August is observed worldwide as EnditNow Emphasis Sabbath, a Seventh-day Adventist initiative that raises awareness and promotes the prevention of violence against women, children, and all vulnerable people. Under this year’s theme, “Moved With Compassion,” the initiative calls believers to follow Christ’s example by responding to suffering with love, justice, and practical care.

Delivering the sermon, Sister Ayanda Moropane spoke from Matthew 9:36, urging believers to reflect the compassion of Jesus in a hurting world. Using the touching illustration, “The Compassionate Quilt,” she shared the story of Anna, an abuse survivor seeking safety and hope for her children, reminding the congregation that Christ never abandons the broken and calls His followers to be instruments of healing and love.

The worship service concluded with members challenged to live out the Gospel by extending Christ’s compassion beyond the church walls, standing for justice, and bringing hope to those in need.

“By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:35).