We see in writings done by Isaiah and the apostle Peter that Jesus suffered so that we can have spiritual forgiveness, physical healing and restoration, and emotional restoration (Isaiah 53:4-5, Matthew 8:16-17, 1 Peter 2:24, Psalm 147:3). But what I want to emphasize today is that we as believers are to show compassion, forgive others repeatedly if necessary, and to love people selflessly (Colossians 3:13, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, Luke 6:35). According to the apostle Paul we are to clothes ourselves with compassion, humility, kindness, forgiveness, and gentleness (Colossians 3:12-13). These traits can be seen by others as weakness or timidity but in reality it takes courage and emotional strength to encompass these virtues. God's grace is the natural source of power to mastering these virtues. When we are kind, compassionate, gentle and forgiving we mirror God's grace (Ephesians 4:32). These four virtues are interconnected to God. Compassion leads a believer to action (Romans 12:15). Gentleness (meekness) which is power under control, is often mistaken for weakness. Someone who encompasses this virtue is generally gentle, quiet, humble and considerate (1 Peter 3:4). Kindness reflects God's own nature. Kindness is an active benevolence toward others (Ephesians 4:32). Forgiveness mirrors the ultimate grace that we receive from God and is an intentional choice to release someone from a grievance that we have with them (Colossians 3:14). Jesus Christ of Nazareth is the ultimate model of these virtues.
Jesus referred to himself as 'gentle and lowly in heart" when he went against the culture of his time and welcomed children so he could bless them (Matthew 11:29). After Jesus had been brutally beaten and hung on the cross, he asked God to forgive the people who had beaten and crucified him (Luke 23:34). Teachings by Jesus and his apostles show a very different way of how we should treat people. Jesus taught the famous parable about the good Samaritan to illustrate what compassion does and doesn't look like (Luke 10:25-37). The parable emphasized that we should show compassion, be kind, and help strangers, people from different cultures and backgrounds. Jesus commanded his followers to 'go and do likewise'. Jesus also did a teaching on the ultimate judgement (Matthew 25:35-40). Whenever we feed the poor, clothe the naked, visit the sick, give drink to the thirsty, and visit the imprisoned we are serving Jesus. But when we don't we are in danger of everlasting punishment Matthew 25:40-46).
We see evil in the world today like it's never been seen before. What was once called evil is good, and what is good is called evil (2 Timothy 3:1-5, Isaiah 5:20). Be the change. By God's grace, be the hands and feet of Jesus.
Written By: Lisa Collier Clewis
