How can we apply Jesus' example of personal attention in our ministry today? Setting the Scene Mark 7:32: “Some people brought to Him a man who was deaf and hardly able to speak, and they begged Jesus to place His hand on him.” In the verses that follow, Jesus steps away from the crowd, uses touch the man can understand, looks to heaven, and speaks healing. His undivided, personal attention stands out. Seeing Jesus’ Personal Attention in Action • Welcomes interruption (Mark 5:30) • Draws the man “away from the crowd privately” (Mark 7:33) • Communicates through touch—fingers in ears, hand on tongue • Shares the man’s burden with a deep sigh toward heaven (Mark 7:34) • Speaks a clear, life-changing command: “Ephphatha!” (Mark 7:35) Principles to Emulate 1. Notice the individual 2. Protect dignity 3. Communicate on the listener’s level 4. Offer appropriate touch and presence 5. Operate in prayerful dependence Practical Ministry Steps • Build margin so interruptions become opportunities • Learn and use names; give eye contact and a warm smile • Provide quiet, private settings for conversation and prayer • Train teams to listen well and adapt care to each person • Ensure accessibility: sign language, written notes, assistive devices • Combine tangible help with spiritual encouragement • Pray with people on the spot, inviting God’s power Encouragement Going Forward Each time we slow down, focus on one person’s need, communicate clearly, and lean on the Father, we mirror Jesus’ compassion in Mark 7 and keep His personal touch alive in today’s ministry. |
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