How can we apply Jesus' example of compassion in our daily interactions? Setting the Scene—A Real Moment in Nain “Then He went up and touched the coffin, and those carrying it stood still. ‘Young man,’ He said, ‘I tell you, get up!’ ” (Luke 7:14) A funeral procession moves out of the city gate. A widow grieves her only son. Jesus interrupts the sorrow, reaches out, and life returns. The event is historical, literal, and powerful—showing that divine compassion is never abstract. Watching Jesus Show Compassion • He notices the widow’s pain (v. 13) before anyone asks for help. • He moves toward the brokenhearted, not away from them. • He touches the coffin—risking ritual defilement to communicate personal concern. • He speaks life-giving words that change reality. What Jesus’ Touch Teaches Us • Initiative: Step toward hurting people rather than waiting for invitations. • Presence: Offer tangible care—an arm around a shoulder, a meal, a ride. • Cost: Be willing to inconvenience yourself; compassion rarely fits a tidy schedule. • Dignity: Treat mourners, outcasts, and “interruptions” as image-bearers of God. Words That Lift—The Power of Speaking Life • Encourage: “A gentle tongue can break a bone” (Proverbs 25:15). • Bless: “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up” (Ephesians 4:29). • Restore: Like Jesus’ “Get up,” our words can help people rise from despair, shame, or discouragement. Putting It Into Practice Today 1. Notice—Slow down enough to see who is grieving or discouraged around you. 2. Pause—Silence the phone, the schedule, the rush; give full attention. 3. Approach—Walk across the room, the yard, the cafeteria; show up. 4. Touch—Offer a handshake, a hug, a handwritten note, a meal delivered. 5. Speak—Share Scripture, affirm worth, pronounce hope. 6. Follow Through—Check back, pray continually, stay available. Additional Scripture Echoes • Matthew 9:36: Jesus “was moved with compassion for them.” • Mark 1:41: “Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out His hand and touched him.” • Ephesians 4:32: “Be kind and tenderhearted to one another.” • Colossians 3:12: “Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” • 1 John 3:18: “Let us love not in word and speech, but in action and truth.” A Week of Compassion Challenges Monday—Write a text of encouragement to someone recently bereaved. Tuesday—Bring coffee to a coworker who looks overwhelmed. Wednesday—Visit or call a shut-in, listen more than you talk. Thursday—Pay for a stranger’s meal; include a note: “God sees you.” Friday—Offer childcare to a single parent for an evening. Saturday—Serve at a local shelter; learn a name, hear a story. Sunday—Invite a newcomer at church to lunch and genuine conversation. Jesus’ touch at Nain still calls us to act. By noticing, moving toward, touching, and speaking life, we echo His compassion in every interaction. |
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