Bible Study Evangelista - The Uselessness of Platitudes

The word “compassion” means to suffer with. More than Jesus’ healings, teachings, and even post resurrection-appearances, the Bible emphasizes Jesus’ passion. Theological reflection suggests that communion in suffering, “compassion,” is really what Jesus offers humankind. It seems the gospel writers, particularly, were most inspired to remember that Jesus came to be with us, inseparably. No illness, no loss, no death, no suffering, no storm, no scandal, no sin, no unruly feelings, no craziness, no darkness of spirit, no self-hate can drive him away. Not just over us or ahead of us – but with us – he saves us.

Job teaches us that when others are going through trials, the last thing they need is for us to tell them what we think we know about God or to try and speak on God’s behalf. Instead, in our service to those who grieve, we imitate Christ, and simply “suffer with” them.

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