TOPIC: Jesus’ Compassion
TODAY’S READING
Luke 7:1-10
Just then there came a man named Jairus, a leader of the synagogue. He fell at Jesus’ feet and begged him to come to his house, for he had an only daughter, about twelve years old, who was dying. – Luke 8:41-42 (NRSV)
The Upper Room Daily Devotional 29th December 2022 MESSAGE
In the Gospel of Luke, Jairus, a leader of the synagogue, begged Jesus to come heal his very sick daughter. (See Luke 8:40-56.) Jairus demonstrated great faith, believing that Jesus could heal his daughter simply by laying his hands on her. Jesus honored his faith by agreeing to follow him to his home.
However, prior to this meeting, Jesus had an encounter with a centurion who interceded for his servant’s healing. But instead of allowing Jesus to come lay his hands on his servant, the centurion asked that Jesus simply say the word and his servant would be healed. He recognized that Jesus’ word was as good as his presence. The centurion’s faith amazed me.
I find it comforting that Jesus had the same compassion for Jairus even though he asked for healing in a different way than the centurion had. It is indeed an encouragement to know that Jesus will have compassion on us wherever our needs draw him. Jesus will not reject us but will meet us where we are. While it is good to learn from the faith of others, we can be confident that no matter our circumstance, trial, or need, Jesus will never forsake us.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Compassionate God, thank you for loving each of us just the way we are and for judging us not by the expression of our faith but by the depth of your mercy. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Jesus will show compassion to me no matter what.
PRAYER FOCUS
To trust God’s mercy
The Upper Room is a daily devotional magazine published in more than 30 languages and 100 countries around the world. The daily meditations are written by readers of the magazine and others interested in sharing their faith experiences through writing—both laity and clergy, published authors and new writers. Read More