Compassion

Preaching Magazine Illustrations

In his Turning Point Daily Devotional for October 12, David Jeremiah writes: “It was hard to watch this year’s French Open without shedding a tear during the tennis match between Juan Martín del Potro and Nicolás Almagro. The score was tied when Almagro’s knee gave out. As Almagro realized what had happened, he broke down, fell backward in defeat, and sobbed so loudly the sound of his weeping could be heard in the farthest galleries. Del Potro, who himself has battled injuries, instantly crossed the net, knelt beside his stricken opponent, consoled him, helped him up, and embraced him. Spectators wiped their eyes as the two men left the court in a remarkable display of compassion.

If our opponents need our compassion, how much more our friends, family, and fellow church members? If world-class athletes can show compassion, how much more should we? When injured in life, we need those who will weep with us, kneel with us, and give us a cup of cold water. We need to be ready to do the same.

God’s compassion for mankind reached out to us through Jesus Christ on the cross. Surely our lives should display His compassion to others as well.”