Day 2: Jesus Has Compassion for You

The leper who approached Jesus in the Gospel of Mark knew his situation was desperate. Outcast from family and society, he had to cry out “Unclean!” everywhere he went. Physically suffering, socially rejected, and spiritually cut off, he had little hope. Yet he came to Jesus and begged, “If you wish, you can make me clean.”

What happened next reveals the heart of Christ. The Gospel tells us that Jesus was “moved with pity.” The Greek word here conveys a deep stirring from His very gut - true compassion. Others looked at the leper with disgust, but Jesus looked with love. Others pulled away, but Jesus stepped closer. And then, He did what no one else would dare: He touched him.

This is who Jesus is. Whatever pain, sin, or shame you carry, He does not recoil from you. He sees you, knows you, and moves toward you with compassion. Our weaknesses, our failures, and even the places where we feel most unworthy become opportunities for His mercy.

When you feel like an outsider, remember this: Jesus draws near with love that restores. His compassion is not just for lepers two thousand years ago, it is for you today.

Questions

• Where do you most need to experience Christ’s compassion today?
• Who in your life might need to experience His compassion through you?