The meaning of compassion is to recognize the suffering of others, then take action to help. The meaning of compassion can be expressed in many ways.
- Author Fredrick Buechner describes the meaning of compassion in these words: "Compassion is sometimes the fatal capacity for feeling what it is like to live inside somebody else's skin. It is the knowledge that there can never really be any peace and joy for me until there is peace and joy finally for you too."
- U2 lead singer Bono explains that the meaning of compassion for Christians is to focus on those in need. "To me, a faith in Jesus Christ that is not aligned with the poor … it's nothing."
- The Bible defines the meaning of compassion in several ways. We are to "speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves … defend the rights of the poor and needy" (Proverbs 31:8-9, NIV). We do this by taking action instead of just talking about helping others: "Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth" (1 John 3:18, NIV).
- Christian recording artist Jeremy Camp explains how you can be the meaning of compassion to a child in poverty. "There are so many kids around the world in need! Through Compassion sponsorship, you can meet not only the basic needs of a child, but you can give a child hope … most important, you can introduce that child to eternal hope through Jesus."
The Meaning of Compassion Is Demonstrated by Compassion International
This life-changing organization releases children from poverty in Jesus' name. Compassion International began in 1952 when the Rev. Everett Swanson began providing Korean War orphans with food, shelter, education and health care as well as Christian training. Today, Compassion has grown into a world-leading ministry for holistic child development. It now demonstrates the meaning of compassion by giving lifesaving assistance to more than 1.2 million children in need in 26 countries.
You can discover the meaning of compassion by sponsoring a child with Compassion International.See how your true compassion can save lives and rescue those in need.