A Touch Of Compassion

A TOUCH OF COMPASSION

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Mark 1:40-42

"And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean." – Mark 1:41

Supporting Texts:

Matthew 14:14, Lamentations 3:22-23, Psalm 145:8-9, Luke 7:13-15, Hebrews 4:15

INTRODUCTION:

Compassion is one of the greatest attributes of God, and it is beautifully demonstrated in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. The Bible describes Jesus as one who was constantly moved with compassion, reaching out to the broken, the sick, and the outcast. His compassion was not just an emotion; it was always followed by action—healing the sick, feeding the hungry, and raising the dead.

In Mark 1:40-42, we see an incredible encounter between Jesus and a leper. Leprosy was a dreaded disease that isolated its victims from society, yet Jesus did what no one else would—He touched the man with compassion and healed him instantly. This act of love reveals God’s heart towards humanity.

As followers of Christ, we are called to walk in His footsteps, demonstrating compassion to those around us. In this study, we will explore the power of a touch of compassion, how it transforms lives, and why it is essential in our Christian journey.

1. JESUS’ COMPASSION MOVES HIM TO ACTION

Compassion is not just a feeling; it is an active force that drives change.

a) Jesus was always moved by compassion (Matthew 14:14).

His compassion led to healing, deliverance, and restoration.

b) True compassion is followed by action (James 2:15-16).

Feeling pity without action is meaningless.

c) Compassion is a mark of true love (1 John 3:17).

If we love, we must be willing to act.

d) God’s mercy is renewed every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23).

His compassion is a daily gift to us.

e) Biblical Example: The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37).

Unlike the priest and Levite, the Samaritan’s compassion moved him to help the wounded man.

2. COMPASSION BREAKS BARRIERS AND REACHES THE UNTOUCHABLE

True compassion defies human traditions and societal barriers.

a) Jesus touched the leper when others avoided him (Mark 1:41).

His compassion overruled societal rejection.

b) God’s love is not limited by human boundaries (Romans 5:8).

He loved us even when we were sinners.

c) The gospel must reach all people, regardless of status (Acts 10:34-35).

Compassion extends beyond cultural and social divisions.

d) We are called to embrace the rejected and forgotten (Luke 14:13-14).

Showing compassion to the poor and neglected pleases God.

e) Biblical Example: Jesus and the woman with the issue of blood (Luke 8:43-48).

He did not reject her but called her “daughter,” restoring her dignity.

3. COMPASSION BRINGS HEALING AND RESTORATION

Where there is compassion, healing flows.

a) Jesus healed the sick out of compassion (Matthew 9:36).

He saw the people as sheep without a shepherd.

b) God’s compassion restores the broken-hearted (Psalm 147:3).

He binds up wounds and heals emotional pain.

c) Our compassion can lead others to Christ (Jude 1:22-23).

Some are saved through acts of kindness.

d) We are called to comfort others (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).

The comfort we receive from God must be shared.

e) Biblical Example: Jesus raising the widow’s son (Luke 7:13-15).

His compassion brought the dead boy back to life.

4. COMPASSION IS A CALL TO SERVE OTHERS

Every believer is called to show compassion through service.

a) Jesus came to serve, not to be served (Matthew 20:28).

True leadership is about serving others.

b) Serving others is an expression of love (Galatians 5:13).

We must use our freedom to serve one another.

c) Compassion makes us Christ-like (Ephesians 5:1-2).

Walking in love means imitating Christ’s compassion.

d) Selfishness hinders true compassion (Philippians 2:3-4).

We must look beyond ourselves and care for others.

e) Biblical Example: Dorcas (Tabitha) and her acts of kindness (Acts 9:36-42).

Her compassion for the poor led to her miraculous resurrection.

5. THE REWARD OF COMPASSION

God rewards those who show mercy and kindness.

a) The merciful shall obtain mercy (Matthew 5:7).

Compassionate people receive divine favour.

b) Giving to the needy is lending to God (Proverbs 19:17).

He promises to repay those who help others.

c) Compassion opens doors to supernatural breakthroughs (Isaiah 58:10-11).

When we care for others, God takes care of us.

d) Compassion leads to eternal rewards (Matthew 25:35-40).

Jesus considers acts of kindness as done unto Him.

e) Biblical Example: Cornelius’ prayers and almsgiving (Acts 10:1-4).

His acts of compassion brought divine visitation.

CONCLUSION:

Compassion is not just a Christian virtue; it is the heartbeat of God. Jesus demonstrated this in His ministry, touching the untouchable, healing the sick, and restoring the broken. When we walk in compassion, we reflect God’s love to the world.

As believers, we are called to go beyond words and show kindness through action. Who around you needs a touch of compassion today? May we become vessels of God’s love, spreading His mercy to a hurting world.