January 29th, 2024 Monday Motivator
What is Compassion?
There is a lot of speculation in our world right now about what it looks like to have compassion.
This concept has been on my mind quite a bit lately.
Recent events have unmistakably shown that our world is in dire need of compassionate individuals, who prioritize the well-being of others over their own plans.
There’s a critical need for compassionate individuals, leaders, and particularly, a compassionate church.
The Apostle Paul, in Ephesians 4:32, urges the church to “be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
In a divided world, the challenge is how to embody compassion.
I’m convinced that the supreme example of compassion is Jesus Christ, our Compassionate Savior. The Scriptures repeatedly depict Jesus as being deeply moved by compassion.
Often, compassion in the Bible is linked with an action.
For instance, “When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick.” (Matthew 14:14, NIV)
Or, “Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him.” (Matthew 20:34, NIV)
And, “When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things.” (Mark 6:34, NIV)
Compassion is more than feeling sorry for someone. Often, we feel like something should be done, but we leave it to someone else.
True compassion compels us to action. God beckons us to leave our comfort zones and extend His love to a world in need.
Consider where you might demonstrate compassion today.
“Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.” Colossians 3:12, ESV
