Luke 1:78 was part of Zacharias’ prophecy concerning Jesus. It says, “Through the tender mercies of our God, with which the Dayspring from on high has visited us.” We are called to exemplify the Lord in every aspect of our lives.

Are you a tenderhearted person? Colossians 3:12-13 says, “Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering. bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.”

Unforgiveness hardens the heart. Ephesians 4:32 says, “And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” Forgiving is not an option. It is a command. 

Tenderhearted means merciful and compassionate. Think of Jesus’ interactions with those who were bound in sickness and every disease. Matthew 9:36 says, “…He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary…”

Physical and emotional pain is exhausting. O Lord, help us to always be moved with compassion for those who are physically and emotionally weary and distraught.