As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him.
Psalm 103:13
Why is it so hard to have compassion for others? Compassion by definition is sympathetic pity and concern for the sufferings or misfortunes of others. While it’s easy to offer empathy, compassion goes a step further, requiring some action on our part. Christ had compassion for the crowds of hungry followers, and fed them with a meager amount of resources, filling each one to satisfaction. He had compassion for the weak, lame, and blind, and offered them a healing to restore their health.
He had compassion for the thief on the cross, and has unlimited compassion for each of us and the trials and struggles we face.

Compassion means putting ourselves out there for others, not just giving lip service and offering prayers from the comfort of our easy chair. Compassion requires us to meet the needs of those in need, where they are. A woman I know recently fell, breaking her hip. Her home doesn’t accommodate a walker, and she’s concerned about both healing and finding a different temporary home. Sympathy says “Oh what a shame,” or “that’s too bad. I hope it all works out for you. I’ll be praying for you.”

Compassion says “Let’s look at our options and together we’ll figure this out. We’ll find a temporary home for you, help you move, and be with you during your recovery.” Sympathy is easy; compassion is action. May we re-examine our Christian commitment as we search for those who need our compassionate ministry, and offer not just our prayers, but our physical assistance as well.