Be the Compassion of Jesus

The Bible talks often about the compassion of Jesus…

“Then Jesus, moved with compassion, stretched out His hand and touched him, and said to him, ‘I am willing, be cleansed’.” Mark 1:41
“And Jesus, when He came out, saw a great multitude and was moved with compassion for them, because they were like sheep not having a shepherd.” Mark 6:34
“When the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her and said to her, ‘Do not weep.'” Luke 7:13
“So Jesus had compassion and touched their eyes. And immediately their eyes received sight, and they followed Him.” Matthew 20:34
“‘I have compassion on the multitude, because they have now continued with Me three days and have nothing to eat’.” Mark 8:2
“And when Jesus went out He saw a great multitude; and He was moved with compassion for them and healed their sick.” Matthew 14:14

…and there are many other examples besides these. It can easily be said that Jesus lived a life of compassion. But, what does that mean?

The word “compassion” comes from the Greek word splagchnizomai, which literally means “to be moved in the inward parts.” These “inward parts” were especially in reference to the more vital organs such as the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, and even the bowels. These organs came to represent the seat of the affections, or in other words, the source of deep emotions, including sympathy, empathy, concern, grief, warmth, and joy.

The Greek word creates the image of being moved, or affected, in those innermost places of your body–even to the core of your being–the very spirit within you. It’s this picture of a profound, emotional response to someone or something.

​But, there’s more–because compassion doesn’t remain internal. It demands an outward showing. Compassion wells up so powerfully within that it overflows from our hands, our feet, our backs, our mouth, our eyes, and our ears in tender displays of love and kindness toward others. Compassion leads to action. Jesus’ compassion always moved him to do something: to feed people, to heal people, to listen to people, to talk to people, to comfort people, and to teach people.

How can we become more compassionate? The answer is simple: by imitating Christ. And then we spread compassion by showing compassion.

Jesus responded with compassion when He saw people hurting, in need, or suffering. It affected Him deeply inside, and then He did something about it. The world needs the compassion of Jesus now more than ever…and it is up to you and me to show it. Be what He would be. Be His compassion.