Service for November 24, 2024

‭Mark 1:35-45 NLT

Before daybreak the next morning, Jesus got up and went out to an isolated place to pray. Later Simon and the others went out to find him. When they found him, they said, “Everyone is looking for you.”

But Jesus replied, “We must go on to other towns as well, and I will preach to them, too. That is why I came.” So he traveled throughout the region of Galilee, preaching in the synagogues and casting out demons.

A man with leprosy came and knelt in front of Jesus, begging to be healed. “If you are willing, you can heal me and make me clean,” he said.

Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out and touched him. “I am willing,” he said. “Be healed!” Instantly the leprosy disappeared, and the man was healed. Then Jesus sent him on his way with a stern warning: “Don’t tell anyone about this. Instead, go to the priest and let him examine you. Take along the offering required in the law of Moses for those who have been healed of leprosy. This will be a public testimony that you have been cleansed.”

But the man went and spread the word, proclaiming to everyone what had happened. As a result, large crowds soon surrounded Jesus, and he couldn’t publicly enter a town anywhere. He had to stay out in the secluded places, but people from everywhere kept coming to him.
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We pray for a compassionate heart. 
Help us to be more understanding 
and empathetic towards others. 
Let us see the world through the eyes 
of those who are suffering and be moved to action. 
May our compassion lead us to help 
and support those in need.

Thank you for your compassion towards us. 
Help us to reflect that same compassion
 in our interactions with others. 
May we learn to listen deeply and 
to respond with kindness 
and care to those who are hurting.
 Guide us to be patient and non-judgmental, 
recognizing the struggles 
and challenges that others face. 
Help us to extend compassion to ourselves, 
understanding that we too 
are deserving of care and kindness.

Amen.