How can we emulate Jesus' compassion in our daily interactions with others? The Snapshot of Compassion: John 11:35 • “Jesus wept.” • One heartfelt moment shows His genuine grief, unfiltered emotion, and personal involvement. • His tears confirm both His deity (knowing He will raise Lazarus) and His humanity (sharing real sorrow). What We Learn from His Tears • Compassion begins with seeing: Jesus looked at Mary’s pain before He wept. • Compassion involves feeling: “We do not have a High Priest unable to sympathize” (Hebrews 4:15). • Compassion moves toward action: moments later, He calls Lazarus out, proving love is practical. Scriptural Threads That Tie In • Psalm 34:18 — “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted.” • Romans 12:15 — “Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep.” • Luke 7:13 — “When the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her.” • 2 Corinthians 1:4 — “He comforts us… so that we can comfort others.” • 1 John 3:18 — “Let us love… in action and truth.” (All quotations) Practical Ways to Emulate Jesus’ Compassion 1. Notice the need • Put the phone down, make eye contact, observe body language. 2. Enter the moment • Offer a listening ear; silence can be as healing as words. 3. Share appropriate emotion • A gentle tear, a sincere smile, or a steady hand mirrors Christ’s empathy. 4. Speak life-giving words • Bless, affirm, remind others of God’s nearness. 5. Take tangible action • Provide a meal, run an errand, give financially, or simply stay present. 6. Point to hope • Jesus raised Lazarus; we point friends to the same resurrection power. Everyday Snapshots • At work: Step into a coworker’s cubicle when deadlines crush them; carry part of the load. • At home: Kneel to a child’s eye level; validate feelings before discipline or advice. • In traffic: Pray for the angry driver rather than retaliate. • At church: Sit with the widow during worship; invite the newcomer to lunch. Staying Fueled for Consistent Compassion • Daily Scripture intake keeps the heart soft. • Ongoing prayer invites the Spirit’s sensitivity. • Fellowship with believers sharpens awareness of needs. • Rest and Sabbath preserve emotional bandwidth for others. Wrapping Life Around His Example Jesus’ two-word sermon, “Jesus wept,” calls us to live alert, empathetic, and active. As His Spirit works through us, everyday interactions become avenues where His compassion is seen and His name is honored. |
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