In what ways can we show compassion like Jesus did in John 9:1? Setting the Scene “Now as Jesus was passing by, He saw a man blind from birth.” – John 9:1 Because this event is a literal record of what our Lord did, it gives us a clear pattern for showing compassion today. Noticing the Overlooked • Jesus was “passing by,” yet He saw the man. • Compassion starts with open eyes and an unhurried heart. • Matthew 9:36: “When He saw the crowds, He was moved with compassion…” Practical parallels: – Pause when you spot a need in a hallway, parking lot, or social feed. – Make eye contact with those society often ignores—homeless, elderly, disabled, out-of-sync teens. Refusing to Blame • The disciples asked, “Rabbi, who sinned…?” (John 9:2). Jesus dismissed the blame game (v. 3). • James 2:13: “Mercy triumphs over judgment.” Practical parallels: – Resist assumptions about why someone is in trouble. – Offer help before offering analysis. Drawing Near and Listening • Jesus later “made mud… and told him, ‘Go, wash…’” (John 9:6-7). His touch and words conveyed dignity. Practical parallels: – Sit with the hospital patient before speaking. – Ask a hurting neighbor, “Tell me what’s happening,” then listen without interrupting. Meeting Tangible Needs • Jesus dealt with real blindness; He didn’t offer clichés. • 1 John 3:17: “If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no compassion on him, how can the love of God abide in him?” Practical parallels: – Buy groceries for the single mom. – Give rides to medical appointments. – Support ministries curing preventable blindness or providing glasses. Bringing Spiritual Light • The physical miracle pointed to spiritual sight (John 9:35-38). • Acts 26:18: “to open their eyes… that they may receive forgiveness of sins.” Practical parallels: – Share your testimony when God opens the door. – Offer to read Scripture with someone wrestling in darkness. Serving with Hands and Heart Concrete ways to imitate Jesus’ compassion: 1. Slow your schedule each day long enough to see people. 2. Keep a small “mercy fund” ready for spontaneous needs (Luke 6:38). 3. Volunteer in local outreach—soup kitchens, pregnancy centers, special-needs programs (Galatians 6:2). 4. Write encouraging notes or texts; words can lift heavy souls (Proverbs 16:24). 5. Advocate for the voiceless in conversations, board meetings, and ballots (Proverbs 31:8-9). Living the Pattern Romans 12:15: “Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep.” When we notice, refuse judgment, listen, act, and point to Christ, we mirror the compassion of the One who paused on a roadside and forever changed a blind man’s life. |
    |