Clothed with Compassion

Living with the Heart of Christ

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” (Colossians 3:12)

Compassion is at the very heart of what it means to follow Jesus. It is more than a feeling of pity or sadness — it is a deep, active mercy that moves toward others with love, especially in their suffering or need. Compassion sees beyond actions and appearances and chooses to see with the eyes of Christ.

What is Compassion?

The word Paul uses in Colossians 3:12 for compassion speaks of a visceral, gut-level response — an inner stirring that leads to action. This is the same word used to describe Jesus’ heart toward the crowds in Matthew 9:36:

“When He saw the crowds, He had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.”

Jesus’ compassion was never distant or theoretical. It drew Him toward the broken, the lost, and the overlooked. His compassion led Him to heal, to teach, to feed, and ultimately to lay down His life.

Compassion Flows from Identity

Paul doesn’t tell us to clothe ourselves with compassion to earn God’s approval. He begins with the truth of who we already are: chosen, holy, and dearly loved. Compassion flows naturally from a heart secure in God’s love. We can be compassionate because God has been compassionate toward us (Psalm 103:13).

Compassion in Action

Compassion is not just a virtue to admire — it’s a daily practice to live out. Compassion happens when we move toward the hurting, rather than away. As Henri Nouwen reminds us, “Compassion asks us to go where it hurts, to enter into places of pain, to share in brokenness.” It happens when we listen instead of judge—remembering Brennan Manning’s wisdom that “compassion is not sentiment but commitment.” It happens when we move toward the hurting rather than away, knowing that “true compassion means not only feeling another’s pain but also being moved to help relieve it” (Daniel Goleman).

A Call to Compassion

In a culture quick to judge and divide, compassion stands out. It reflects the heart of our Savior, who moved toward us in mercy when we were at our worst (Romans 5:8).

Reflection Question:

Who in your life needs to experience God’s compassion through you today?

Prayer:

Lord, clothe me with compassion. Soften my heart toward others. Help me see with Your eyes and move with Your love, that my life might reflect the mercy You have shown me. Amen.