Autumn 2 – 2024
This half-term, we will be looking at the value of compassion.
Noticing a Need
The dictionary defines compassion as, “a strong feeling of sympathy and sadness for the suffering or bad luck of others and a wish to help them.”
There are many stories in the Bible about Jesus noticing the needs of others and showing compassion. Once he went off in a boat to find a place away from crowds where he and his disciples could rest. But when he reached the shore, on the other side of the lake there were yet more people wanting him to help them and heal those who were ill.
When Jesus saw the crowd, his heart was filled with compassion, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things.”
Mark 6.34
Here are some videos you could watch at home with your child to discuss compassion:
How did Jesus show compassion?
Can you think of any other stories from the Bible where Jesus showed compassion?
How have you shown compassion?
Being a Good Neighbour
By telling the story of the Good Samaritan, Jesus was teaching us that everyone in need is our neighbour, even when they are not our special friends.
How do you think we can show that we are good neighbours today?
Who are your neighbours?
Having the Right Attitude
“Clothe yourself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience” – Colossians 3.12
The word compassion is the combination of two words, ‘com’ which means with and passion, which can mean suffering or sad, trying to understand how they might feel and showing that you care about them.
Look at the picture.
What do you think might have happened to the girl to make her feel sad?
What do you think the girl might be saying to show compassion?
