“Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him.” [MATTHEW 20:34]
The etymology of the word compassion lies in two Latin words, cum and patior, meaning “to suffer with,” to endure with, to struggle with, and to partake of the hunger, nakedness, loneliness, pain, and broken dreams of our brothers and sisters in the human family. Commitment to Jesus Christ without compassion for his people is a lie.
The life of integrity born of fidelity to the dream has a precise meaning in the mind of Christ. It leaves no room for romanticized idealism, condescending pity, or sentimental piety. When a disciple’s every response, word, and decision is motivated by compassion, he has “put on Christ” and walks in the way of integrity. Biblically, compassion means action. Copious Christian tears shed for the dehydrated babies in Juarez is heartfelt emotion; when combined with giving them a cup of water, it is compassion.
Every time the Gospels mention that Jesus was moved with the deepest emotions or felt sorry for people, it led to his doing something—physical or inner healing, deliverance or exorcism, feeding the hungry crowds or intercessory prayer.
How might you share the pain of those you know?
Lord Jesus Christ, show me how to activate compassion, relieving whatever struggle I can. Amen. [Faith That Matters]
