When we call to mind the word compassion what does it invoke in us? Usually, you think of a warm sentimentality, maybe you equate it to that "awww" feeling that moves you to greater love for a thing or a person. But this way of thinking about compassion is merely mis-translating it to what we would consider an affection. CS Lewis talks a great deal about this love of affection in his book "The Four Loves." But to call an affection a act of compassion does it a great disservice.
However, when one is compassionate towards something or someone they cannot remain to sit still. When we break down the word compassion, "com" means "together" or "with," and "passio" (the original latin suffix means "to suffer." "Passio" or "passion" originates from Christ's passion on Calvary. So to o have compassion towards another doesn't mean to merely have sympathy for the person. No, to be compassionate is to be willing to suffer with those who are suffering. To strive after holiness is to strive to be like Christ. To be like Christ is to imitate Him in all he did, including His compassion.
Pondering Christ's Compassion during Advent
In the season of Advent we are preparing for the celebration of Christ's birth. This time of preparation is good to reflect and ponder the humility of Christ and Mary. The Son of God coming down and submitting to the limitations of man, but not just as a full grown man, but by becoming a powerless baby. He was born into complete helplessness. For as anyone knows, a baby out of the mothers womb cannot survive on its own. Yet, the Son of God was placed into the protection of the young humble virgin. This is the moment where the LORD entered into our brokenness, He entered into the darkness, the moment where He entered into our sinful world.
"For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we do have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are - yet he did not sin."
Hebrews 4:15
As we look forward to the rest of Christ's life we see is great compassion for people, especially the suffering. For all throughout scripture we see Christ as the Good Shepherd. The good shepherd cares for His flock and does not let even one go astray.
Christ's Compassion going to the cross
Jesus in His final hour willingly took up His cross. He did not argue, He did not run from it, He did not despise it. He graciously kissed the cross which He took up. This cross He carried for the sins of you and I. He was willing to suffer for our sake. He was willing to take the punishment that we deserved upon His own shoulders.
All we like sheep have gone astray;
we have turned every one to his
own way;
and the LORD has laid on him
the iniquity of us all.
He was opressed, and he was afflicted,
yet he opened not his mouth;
like a lamb that is led to the slaughter,
and like a sheep that bedire its
shearers is dumb,
so he opened his not his mouth.
Isaiah 53:6-7
This is what it means to have compassion. For we are helpless and He offers His merciful hand to us and says "I forgive you, my child, now follow me."
This is what we must imitate. This "yes" to the cross that comes our way. A kind greeting to the cup the LORD has given us. A un-resentful kiss to the trials that will come for following Christ.
God Bless,
Madison
Bible Study Questions: Isaiah 53:6-7
After reading the reflection and scripture, what stood out to you? Why do you think that in particular?
What does Christ's willingness to go to the cross show us about Him?
If to be compassion means to suffer with another, what are ways you can walk and accompany others in suffering? Are there people around you that you could walk with more intentionally?
Christ doesn't guarantee us a pain free life of splendor and luxury, rather he says we will need to pick up our crosses and that we will be persecuted by the world for following him. What are ways you can joyfully pick up your cross?
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