Typically when I think of compassion, I think of helping the needy, or concern for the suffering and misfortune of others.
The lyric that immediately comes to mind is….”everyone needs compassion, the kindness of a stranger?” {now that you are singing that song, you are welcome}. But what about the kindness of a parent?
When I began looking at all the scripture that mentioned compassion, I was surprised to find multiple scriptures explaining how God showed compassion to His people instead of being angry.
Psalm 77:9
Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has he in anger shut up his compassion?”Psalm 78:38
Yet he, being compassionate, atoned for their iniquity and did not destroy them; he restrained his anger often and did not stir up all his wrath.Isaiah 54:8
In overflowing anger for a moment I hid my face from you, but with everlasting love I will have compassion on you,” says the Lord, your Redeemer.
To truly understand compassion, we must understand the origin of it. It was God in His infinite mercy and grace that has given us a way to be forgiven and accepted. He created compassion. He could have been angry with us or given up on us, but instead He decided to show care and concern for us, the less fortunate.
If we want to teach our children compassion, then we must demonstrate compassion to them.
Psalm 103:13
As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him.
It is only by our example that they will understand the true nature of compassion. Obviously, showing care and concern for others is critical to showing compassion, but in order to truly care about a person, we must set aside judgements and frustrations. We must put off stereotypes and unrealistic expectations, and put on other shoes. When we consider how the person is feeling, then we can respond with compassion. I never struggled with anger, until I became a parent. However, seeing how God dealt with His anger, encourages me to consider compassionate parenting more seriously rather than responding out of my selfish nature. Compassion is the nature of a mother’s heart, but we must be intentional with our children to show them the why’s and how’s of compassion.
What to Share with your Child
Compassion is showing kindness and concern for others. It is simply helping someone who is in need. God first showed us compassion. We were sinners who needed salvation, and instead of getting frustrated with us, He sent his son, Jesus to save us. Even when we make mistakes, God loves us and shows us compassion every day. It’s important for us to show compassion to people around us, especially those who have less or are hurting.
Ideas for Discussion
1. God shows us compassion. Read Isaiah 54:10 together, and discuss ways that God has showed you compassion.
For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.
2. Anger is a natural emotion sometimes, but what does God teach us about the opposite of anger? Read the story of Noah. Why did God spare Noah and his family? How is this an example of compassion?
3. Instead of waiting to explain why people ask for money or food on the street corners, take time to talk about the need to show compassion to those less fortunate.
Ideas for Activity
1. Sponsor a child. If the Compassion Experience is in your area, then it is a great way for your kids to hear the story of kids around the world and some of the struggles they experience.
2. Create give bags to include snacks/gift cards to give out when you encounter someone asking for help on the street.
3. Make a prayer journal and list those that are sick and hurting. Then after praying for them by name, think of creative ways to show compassion. Maybe make homemade cookies or a card.
4. Role-play a situation that makes you angry. For preschoolers/elementary aged this could be as simple as getting a toy taken away. Then reverse the role, and have the child respond with compassion instead of anger. Explain that if God wanted to, He could be angry with us when we make bad choices, but instead He chooses compassion.
3 Truths to Share with Your Child about Compassion
1. God has shown compassion to us, by giving us a way to be forgiven.
2. Compassion is caring for others—being sensitive to other’s feelings and being willing to meet their needs.
3. Instead of responding in anger, we should hold back our anger and show compassion.
Prayer
Lord, thank you for showing us compassion when we needed it most. Help us to show compassion to others. Give us opportunity to help those who have less than us, those that are hurting and need a friend. Let us respond the way You would. Even when we are frustrated or just don’t feel like it, remind us how to be compassionate. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
For links to all posts in this series, go here >> 31 Days of Family Faith-Building.
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