How can we show compassion to those who feel ignored or rejected? Setting the Scene—Matthew 15:23 “ But Jesus did not answer a word. So His disciples came and urged Him, ‘Send her away, for she keeps crying out after us.’ ” What We Notice in the Moment • A woman in deep distress is met with silence. • The disciples’ instinct is dismissal, not mercy. • Jesus’ pause is purposeful, drawing out faith and revealing hearts. Compassion Lessons from the Passage • Silence does not equal indifference; it can be a stage for greater grace (vv. 24-28). • The disciples’ impatience warns us against judging another’s pain as an inconvenience. • Jesus ultimately commends and blesses the woman, showing that persistent, humble seekers will be received. Principles to Imitate • Hear the whole story before speaking (Proverbs 18:13). • Resist the reflex to “send away” those who make us uncomfortable. • Look for God-given faith in the hurting rather than faults that excuse withdrawal. Practical Ways to Show Compassion – Pause and give eye contact; presence communicates worth. – Ask how you can serve, then follow through with tangible help (1 John 3:17-18). – Speak words of value drawn from Scripture: “You are precious in His sight” (Isaiah 43:4). – Include the overlooked in gatherings, decisions, and conversations (Romans 15:7). – Advocate when others dismiss them, modeling Christ’s eventual defense of the Canaanite woman. – Provide quiet aids: a meal, a ride, childcare—needs often ignored with the person. – Keep confidences; trust rebuilds shattered dignity (Proverbs 11:13). – Pray with them and for them, even when answers seem delayed (Luke 18:1-8). Other Voices of Scripture • Hagar felt unseen, yet discovered “the God who sees me” (Genesis 16:13). • Bartimaeus was shushed, but Jesus stopped and called him (Mark 10:46-52). • The woman with the hemorrhage was hidden, yet Jesus publicly affirmed her (Luke 8:43-48). • “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted” (Psalm 34:18). • “All of you, be like-minded and compassionate” (1 Peter 3:8). • “Pure and undefiled religion…to look after orphans and widows in their distress” (James 1:27). Living It Out Today Christ’s brief silence in Matthew 15 was never abandonment; it led to a public display of honor and healing. Likewise, our deliberate, patient engagement with the ignored can become the channel through which they encounter the steadfast love of God. |
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