Definition and Importance
Compassion, a profound and empathetic concern for the suffering of others, is a central tenet of Christian ethics and practice. It is more than mere sympathy; it involves a deep-seated desire to alleviate the suffering of others, reflecting the love and mercy of God. In the Bible, compassion is both a divine attribute and a human responsibility, urging believers to act with kindness and mercy.

Biblical Foundation
The Bible presents God as the ultimate source of compassion. In Exodus 34:6, God describes Himself to Moses as "The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and truth." This divine compassion is mirrored in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, who is frequently moved by compassion to heal the sick, feed the hungry, and teach the 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."

Old Testament Insights
The Old Testament frequently calls God's people to emulate His compassion. In Deuteronomy 15:7-8, the Israelites are instructed, "If there is a poor man among your brothers in any of the towns of the land that the LORD your God is giving you, do not be hardhearted or tightfisted toward your poor brother. Instead, you are to open your hand to him and freely loan him whatever he needs." This command underscores the expectation that God's people will reflect His compassionate nature in their dealings with others.

New Testament Teachings
The New Testament further emphasizes the importance of compassion in the life of a believer. In Colossians 3:12, Paul exhorts Christians, "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." Compassion is presented as a fundamental characteristic of the Christian life, integral to the believer's identity and conduct.

The Parable of the Good Samaritan
One of the most poignant illustrations of compassion in the New Testament is the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37). In this parable, Jesus challenges His listeners to redefine their understanding of neighborly love. The Samaritan, moved by compassion, tends to the wounds of a man left for dead, demonstrating that true compassion transcends ethnic and social boundaries. Jesus concludes the parable with the command, "Go and do likewise," urging His followers to act with mercy and compassion.

Practical Application
Cultivating compassion involves both an inward transformation and outward action. Believers are called to develop a heart that is sensitive to the needs of others, reflecting the compassion of Christ. This can be achieved through prayer, meditation on Scripture, and active engagement in acts of service and charity. James 1:27 reminds Christians that "pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world."

Challenges and Encouragement
While cultivating compassion can be challenging in a world often marked by indifference and self-interest, believers are encouraged to persevere. Galatians 6:9 offers encouragement: "Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." The cultivation of compassion is a lifelong journey, one that requires reliance on the Holy Spirit and a continual commitment to living out the love of Christ in tangible ways.