Power of Touch

Power of Touch

Bible: Mark 1:40-45

Reading

Moved by compassion, Jesus reached out and touched him (V.41 NLT).

Dr. Paul Brand, a Christian doctor who went to work in India, saw the effects of leprosy for himself. Not only is it a terrible skin disease to have, but sufferers are cut off from their community. During an appointment, he touched a patient to reassure him treatment was possible. Tears began to pour down the man’s face. A nurse explained the tears to Dr. Brand, saying, “You touched him and no one has done that for years. They are tears of joy.” Jesus met a man with leprosy (MARK 1:40). Because of his disease the Old Testament law said the man had to live outside his community, away from
his friends and family. If the sick man accidentally found himself near to healthy people, he had to call out, “Unclean! Unclean!” so they could avoid him (LEVITICUS 13:45-46). As a result, the man may have gone months or years being totally alone. Filled with loving concern, Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. Jesus had the power and authority to heal people with just a word
(MARK 2:11-12). But because this man’s illness left him feeling cut off and rejected, Jesus’ touch showed the man that he was not alone but accepted. Who can you reach out to today? Who needs to know they are not alone? Who needs a kind word or a bit of company? As God gives us the
opportunities, let’s show His caring love to the people we meet.

CARING FOR OTHERS MEANS

MEETING THEM WHERE THEY’RE AT.

                                      Youth Edition – Our Daily Bread Ministries