Compassion of God

The compassion of God is a central theme throughout the Bible, reflecting His deep love and mercy towards humanity. The Hebrew word often translated as "compassion" is "racham," which conveys a sense of deep, tender affection, akin to the love a parent has for a child. In the New Testament, the Greek word "splagchnizomai" is used, indicating a visceral, heartfelt compassion.

In the Old Testament, God's compassion is frequently highlighted in His dealings with Israel. Despite their repeated disobedience, God continually shows mercy. 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 the compassionate nature of God as foundational to His character.

The Psalms often celebrate God's compassion. Psalm 103:13-14 states, "As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him. For He knows our frame; He is mindful that we are dust." Here, God's compassion is likened to that of a loving father, understanding and patient with human frailty.

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ embodies God's compassion. The Gospels frequently describe Jesus as being moved with compassion for the suffering and lost. In Matthew 9:36, it is written, "When He saw the crowds, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." Jesus' ministry is marked by acts of healing, teaching, and feeding, all stemming from His compassionate heart.

Restoration by God

Restoration is a powerful theme in Scripture, illustrating God's desire to renew and redeem His creation. The concept of restoration involves returning something to its original state or even improving it beyond its former condition. God's restorative work is evident both in individual lives and in the broader scope of His redemptive plan for the world.

In the Old Testament, the restoration of Israel is a recurring promise. After periods of judgment and exile, God promises to restore His people. Jeremiah 30:17 declares, "For I will restore health to you, and I will heal your wounds, declares the LORD." This promise of restoration is not only physical but also spiritual, as God seeks to renew the covenant relationship with His people.

The prophetic books often speak of a future restoration that encompasses all creation. Isaiah 65:17-18 proclaims, "For behold, I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind. But be glad and rejoice forever in what I create." This eschatological vision points to a time when God will fully restore and renew the world.

In the New Testament, the theme of restoration is fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus provides the means for spiritual restoration. Acts 3:21 speaks of Jesus, "whom heaven must receive until the time comes for God to restore everything, as He promised long ago through His holy prophets." This restoration is both present and future, as believers experience renewal in Christ and anticipate the ultimate restoration of all things.

The Apostle Paul emphasizes the restorative work of God in the lives of believers. In 2 Corinthians 5:17, he writes, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!" This transformation is a testament to God's power to restore individuals, making them new creations in Christ.

Throughout Scripture, God's compassion and restoration are intertwined, revealing His heart for humanity and His desire to bring healing and renewal. These themes offer hope and assurance of God's unwavering love and His ultimate plan to restore all things to Himself.