Compassion, a profound and central theme in the Bible, serves as a model for Christian conduct and reflects the character of God. The term "compassion" is derived from the Latin "compati," meaning "to suffer with." In the biblical context, compassion involves a deep empathy and a desire to alleviate the suffering of others, often manifesting in acts of kindness and mercy.

Old Testament Foundations

The Old Testament frequently portrays God as compassionate, setting a divine standard for His people. In Exodus 34:6, God reveals Himself to Moses, proclaiming, "The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and truth." This self-revelation underscores compassion as an intrinsic attribute of God, one that He expects His followers to emulate.

The Hebrew word for compassion, "racham," is closely related to "rechem," meaning "womb," suggesting a nurturing, parental care. This is evident in Isaiah 49:15, where God compares His compassion to that of a mother: "Can a woman forget her nursing child, or lack compassion for the son of her womb? Even if she could forget, I will not forget you!"

The prophetic literature often calls Israel to reflect God's compassion in their social and religious life. Micah 6:8 encapsulates this call: "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?"

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ embodies and exemplifies divine compassion. His ministry is marked by numerous acts of healing and mercy, driven by compassion for the suffering. Matthew 9:36 describes Jesus' response to the crowds: "When He saw the crowds, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd."

The parables of Jesus further illustrate compassion as a model for His followers. The Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) challenges believers to extend compassion beyond cultural and ethnic boundaries, emphasizing that true neighborly love is marked by mercy and action.

The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, encourages believers to clothe themselves with compassion as part of their new identity in Christ. Colossians 3:12 instructs, "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience."

Compassion in Christian Practice

The early church demonstrated compassion through communal living and care for the needy. Acts 2:44-45 records, "All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they shared with anyone who was in need." This practice of compassion was a powerful testimony to the transformative power of the Gospel.

Compassion remains a vital aspect of Christian ethics and mission. It calls believers to engage in acts of mercy, justice, and love, reflecting the heart of God to a broken world. As followers of Christ, Christians are called to be His hands and feet, extending His compassion to all, regardless of status or circumstance.