Compassion

“You must be compassionate just as your Father is compassionate”

 (Luke 6:36 - NLT)

While Jesus reveals the Father as compassionate and loving, some see a contradiction between Jesus revelation of God and God as revealed in the Old Testament. However, there is no contradiction for even there Father revealed himself as – “The merciful and gracious God - slow to anger and rich in unfailing love and faithfulness.” (Exodus 34: 6 - NLT). David, shepherd boy and ancient King of Israel, also reveals Father as one who, in his experience, was – “Kind and merciful, slow to get angry, full of unfailing love – good to everyone – showering compassion on all his creation.” (Psalm 145: 8&9 - NLT).

For many however the question remains – how can God allow or how can God do something, which in their estimation, appears to be far from loving?

There are three areas, which perhaps we fail to appreciate. Firstly Father has given us a free will individually and corporately. This can have a devastating effect in individual lives, families and nations. Secondly, it is not given to most of us to see the bigger picture – tough love is sometimes a reality. And, thirdly, although “God is love” in essence, he also has other attributes, for instance he is just, righteous, pure, and holy.

As an imperfect parent, love for my children is never in question – it is in the DNA of my being (I am created in my Father’s image). However, there are other characteristics in my relationship with them, which, at certain times, may not appear to be motivated by love. Yet, although imperfect, love is always my heart towards them. How much more must the heart of the perfect Father be towards us – his children? Yes - our Father is gracious, kind, merciful, full of unfailing love and longs to shower you with his compassion – this is the essence of his heart towards you and I – even when we find it difficult to understand his dealings with us.