Dr. Jordon Gilmore
Compassion is more than simply recognizing that someone is in need. It is an expression of God's love that moves us to respond. In this message, Jordon explores how God's compassion toward us should shape the way we see, serve, and care for others.
In Exodus 34:6, God introduces Himself to Moses as a God of compassion and mercy, slow to anger and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness. Compassion is not merely something God demonstrates; it is part of His character. As His children, we are called to reflect that same character in our daily lives.
Drawing from his recent trip to New York City, Jordon shares how God challenged him to recognize the ways fear, unfamiliar surroundings, personal schedules, and inconvenience can cause us to set aside the very compassion we are called to demonstrate.
Through three powerful biblical accounts, we discover that compassion requires three essential things:
Biblical Examples of Compassion
Jesus Raises the Widow's Son – Luke 7:11–16
Jesus encounters a grieving widow whose only son has died. Without being asked, Jesus sees her suffering, has compassion, and raises her son from the dead. His response reminds us that genuine compassion pays attention to the needs of others, even when we are occupied with our own responsibilities.
Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand – Mark 6:30–44
When Jesus and His disciples seek a place to rest, a large crowd follows them. Rather than turning the people away, Jesus responds with compassion. Although the disciples recognize the crowd's hunger, they see their limited resources as an obstacle. Jesus challenges them to respond and demonstrates how God can provide what is needed. Sometimes the greatest opportunities for ministry are the ones we never planned.
The Good Samaritan – Luke 10:25–37
A priest and a Levite see an injured man but pass him by. The Samaritan, however, sees the same need and chooses to act. His compassion costs him time, resources, and personal convenience. Jesus concludes the parable with a direct instruction: "You go, and do likewise."
Putting On the Character of Christ
Colossians 3:12 instructs believers to put on compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Just as we intentionally choose what clothes to wear each morning, we must intentionally choose to demonstrate these qualities wherever we go.
As members of God's kingdom, compassion should be part of the character we display to the world. Our willingness to serve others, especially when doing so is inconvenient, becomes a powerful testimony of God's love.
Key Takeaway
We cannot meet every need or solve every problem, but we can choose not to look away. Compassion begins when we pay attention, recognize what God has placed within our ability to do, and willingly respond.
Our call is simple: Be like our Father. Put on compassion, remain sensitive to the needs around you, and be willing to act—even when it is inconvenient.
Scripture References
