Definition and Nature:
True compassion, as understood within the biblical context, is a profound and active expression of love and mercy that reflects the character of God. It is not merely an emotional response but a deliberate action that seeks the well-being of others, often at a personal cost. True compassion is rooted in the love of God and is demonstrated through acts of kindness, mercy, and justice.

Biblical Foundation:
The Bible presents God as the ultimate source and model 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 consistently demonstrated throughout Scripture, particularly in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.

Jesus as the Model of Compassion:
Jesus Christ embodies true compassion in His earthly ministry. The Gospels frequently depict Him moved by compassion to heal the sick, feed the hungry, and teach the lost. In Matthew 9:36, it is recorded, "When He saw the crowds, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." His compassion was not limited to physical needs but extended to spiritual restoration, as seen in His interactions with sinners and outcasts.

Parables and Teachings:
Jesus taught about true compassion through parables, such as the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37). In this account, the Samaritan exemplifies true compassion by caring for a wounded man, regardless of ethnic and social barriers. Jesus concludes by instructing, "Go and do likewise," emphasizing that true compassion requires action and transcends societal prejudices.

Compassion in the Early Church:
The early Christian community demonstrated true compassion as a hallmark of their faith. Acts 2:44-45 describes the believers as having "all things in common" and selling their possessions to distribute to anyone in need. This communal care was a practical expression of their love for one another and a testimony to the transformative power of the Gospel.

The Role of Compassion in Christian Life:
True compassion is a vital aspect of Christian discipleship. Believers are called to emulate Christ's compassion in their daily lives. Colossians 3:12 exhorts Christians, "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." This call to compassion is not optional but integral to living out one's faith.

Challenges and Misunderstandings:
While true compassion is a biblical mandate, it can be misunderstood or misapplied. It is not mere sentimentality or enabling harmful behavior. True compassion involves discernment and wisdom, seeking the genuine good of others in alignment with God's truth. It may require difficult choices and sacrificial love, as demonstrated by Christ.

Conclusion:
True compassion, as revealed in Scripture, is a reflection of God's own heart and a defining characteristic of a life transformed by the Gospel. It calls believers to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God, as stated in Micah 6:8. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, Christians are equipped to live out this compassion in a world in desperate need of God's love and grace.