How can we apply Jesus' example of compassion in our daily lives? A Glimpse of Compassion in Action “ When He said this, all His adversaries were humiliated, but the whole crowd rejoiced at all the glorious things He was doing.” (Luke 13:17) What We Learn from Jesus in Luke 13 • He noticed a woman “crippled by a spirit for eighteen years” (v. 11) and refused to overlook her suffering. • He called her forward—He didn’t wait for her to beg (v. 12). • He spoke life-giving words: “Woman, you are set free from your infirmity” (v. 12). • He touched her; His compassion was tangible (v. 13). • He faced criticism from religious leaders yet stayed focused on mercy (vv. 14-15). • He framed the healing as an act of releasing a “daughter of Abraham” whom Satan had bound (v. 16). • The end result: God was glorified and people rejoiced (v. 17). Core Principles Behind Jesus’ Compassion • See the person before you see the problem. • Act even when it is inconvenient or may draw criticism. • Value people more than traditions or schedules. • Combine gracious words with practical help. • Keep God’s glory, not personal approval, as the goal. Daily Application: Cultivating a Compassionate Heart 1. Slow Down to Notice – Ask the Lord to open your eyes each morning to someone in need (Psalm 146:8). 2. Move Toward, Not Away – Like the Good Samaritan “came to him and bandaged his wounds” (Luke 10:34), take the first step. 3. Speak Hope – “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up” (Ephesians 4:29). 4. Offer Practical Help – Carry a meal, give a ride, provide child-care; let compassion be concrete (1 John 3:17-18). 5. Risk Criticism – Jesus healed on the Sabbath; we may need to break social norms for mercy’s sake (Galatians 1:10). 6. Point to God’s Glory – After meeting a need, give thanks aloud so the praise goes to Him (Matthew 5:16). Living It Out: Simple Ideas • At Home: Surprise a family member with an act of service—laundry, dishes, a note of encouragement. • At Work or School: Eat lunch with someone who usually sits alone; listen to their story. • At Church: Arrive early or stay late to notice newcomers and genuinely welcome them. • In the Community: Keep care packages (water, snacks, gospel tract) in your car for those at street corners. • Online: Use social media to share Scripture and thoughtful encouragement, not arguments. Scripture Fuel for Compassionate Living • “Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out His hand and touched the man.” (Mark 1:41) • “When He saw the crowds, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” (Matthew 9:36) • “Be kind and tender-hearted to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32) • “Put on then, as God’s chosen ones…compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” (Colossians 3:12) • “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) • “If a brother or sister is without clothes and lacks daily food…what good is it?” (James 2:15-16) A Closing Thought Jesus’ compassion in Luke 13 liberated a woman, silenced critics, and stirred a crowd to glorify God. As we see, move, speak, and act in that same compassionate spirit, we become living reminders of His presence in our world today. |
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