C-A-R-E
by Mike Killebrew
I was traveling with my family this weekend and we visited a church where I had never worshipped before. I was blessed in a variety of ways, particularly by the careful exegesis of Romans 12 in the sermon. The church was in a series on the book of Romans, and the pastor did an incredible job studying God’s Word and offering relevant application.
As he unpacked verses 6–8, focusing on using spiritual gifts for the good of the body, he matter-of-factly shared that showing mercy was not his strongest gift. He then explained why showing mercy and having compassion is still a valuable gift to be used. In that moment, I was reminded of a childhood memory—my hometown pastor once shared something similar. It stuck with me because it was funny both in delivery and content: a pastor admitting he didn’t naturally lead with compassion.
Perhaps I can relate. Showing compassion and concern isn’t always my first reaction in certain situations. I tend to analyze and problem-solve when I see a need, rather than simply offering presence and empathy. It’s a self-identified area of growth.
This year, our blog theme has centered around 1 John 2:6: “If I claim to be a Christian, I must live as Jesus lived.” We’ve explored a variety of topics that Jesus modeled for us as we pursue living like Him. I’m especially excited about this month’s theme—showing compassion and concern—because Jesus gave us so many examples. He healed the sick, fed the hungry, and responded to those experiencing grief. He met both physical and spiritual needs, often at the same time.
The word compassion appears over a hundred times in the Bible and one source notes it’s used 145 times. Here are just a few examples of how Jesus demonstrated compassion and concern:
Jesus Cared for the Sick
Matthew 20:34 – “Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him.” (NIV)
Mark 1:41 – “Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out and touched him. ‘I am willing,’ he said. ‘Be healed!’” (NLT)
Matthew 14:14 – “Jesus saw the huge crowd as he stepped from the boat, and he had compassion on them and healed their sick.” (NIV)
Jesus Fed the Hungry
Matthew 15:32 – “Jesus called His disciples to him and said, ‘I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat.’” (NIV)
Mark 6:34–44 – “When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, He had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So, He began teaching them many things.” (NIV) This teaching was followed by the miraculous feeding of the crowd.
Jesus Responded to Grief and Spiritual Need
Luke 7:13 – When Jesus saw a widow mourning the loss of her only son, “His heart overflowed with compassion. ‘Don’t cry!’ he said.” (NLT)
Luke 19:41–42 (paraphrased) – Jesus wept over the city of Jerusalem, demonstrating compassion for its people who were turning away from peace.
Matthew 9:36 – “When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” (NIV)
To help me live more like Jesus and stretch myself in this area, I’ve been reflecting on the word CARE. Here are some practical principles that stand out:
C — Cede judgment
It’s easy to make assumptions about people’s stories, but Jesus calls us to see others through His eyes. When we avoid judgment, we make space for grace. Choosing to listen rather than label allows the Spirit to work through us and reminds us that every person we meet is deeply loved by God.
A — Act
Compassion isn’t just an emotion. It’s a decision. Jesus didn’t simply feel compassion; He acted on it. Whether it’s offering a meal for someone who could use it, a word of encouragement, or simply our time, compassion becomes real when it’s expressed through our actions. Every act of kindness is an opportunity to live as Jesus did!
R — Recognize needs. Be a person who notices.
So much of following Jesus starts with simply seeing the lonely, the overlooked, or the hurting. Slow down long enough to look beyond yourself and ask the Lord to open your eyes to the needs around you. Be ready to respond, but stay open-handed, trusting God to guide when and how you should step in.
E — Empathize. Show up and rejoice or weep.
Empathy means entering another person’s joy or sorrow without trying to fix it. Romans 12:15 invites us to “rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” Sometimes the most Christlike thing we can do is simply to be there. To show up, to celebrate with someone in their gladness or to sit quietly beside them in their pain.
Cede, act, recognize and empathize; as we reflect on Jesus’ example, may we be people who don’t just feel compassion, but live it. Let’s ask God to prepare our hearts, open our eyes, and guide our hands so that our lives reflect His love in tangible ways. Compassion isn’t always convenient, but it is always living like Jesus lived.
