“Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 2:5, NKJV)

“I have compassion on the crowd.” Mark 8:2

What a wonderful pattern he has left for us! He came to minister in a world where there were crowds of sick people, blind, lame, paralyzed, demon possessed, lepers, and even some who had died. The wail of suffering humanity was everywhere borne to his eyes and ears. It was his delight—to walk its paths and byways to pity, relieve, comfort, and to save! The faintest cry of misery arrested his footsteps and stirred in him an outpouring of infinite love.

Was it a leper, that dreaded name which involved a life-long exile from friendly looks and kind words? There was One who had sympathy and deeds of tenderness for the outcast. “Then Jesus, moved with compassion, stretched out His hand and touched him, and said to him, “I am willing; be cleansed (Mk.1:41 NKJV).”

Was it the blind beggar on the Jericho highway as Jesus was leaving Galilee, who was groping in darkness and pleading for help? Jesus stopped and had compassion on him and gave him sight (Lk. 18:35).

Was it the speechless pleadings of a widow’s tears at the gate of Nain, when she followed the funeral possession for her only son? (see Lk. 7:11ff). When the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her and said to her, “Do not weep. (Vs. 13).”

Was it the penitent thief on the cross when he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” And Christ’s answer was an overwhelming demonstration of his compassion when he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise. (Lk. 23:42-43)”

Jesus’ life on earth, where he demonstrated compassion to those in need, was just a preview of his heavenly priesthood ministry for us. We are told in Hebrews 7:25, “Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.” He is currently constantly demonstrating his compassion for us by praying for and giving us grace to grow in his likeness.

How can we not have compassion for others as we go through this current trial? Should we not also have the mind of Christ in us now in having compassion for each other and for our neighbors? May God give us all spiritual wisdom and understanding as we place our hope and faith in Him.

Prayer: O Lord, thank you for having compassion for me, teach me how I can demonstrate compassion for others. In Jesus name. Amen.