Jehovah-Rapha: The God Who HealsНамуна

Title: The God of Compassion

Devotional Content:

Jesus went by boat to a remote area to be alone and grieve when He learned of His cousin’s fate. John the Baptist, who had paved the way for Jesus’ coming, was beheaded at the whim of a young girl doing her mother’s evil bidding. When the people heard where Jesus was going, they followed Him. Instead of finding solitude when He stepped off the boat, He found a vast crowd of needy people from many villages waiting for Him. Cripples, lepers, the blind and deaf, and hoards of sick people all shouted, “Teacher, touch me! Make me well again!” as they pushed and shoved toward Him, clamoring for His attention. He didn’t send them away. He had compassion on them and healed all who were sick. 

Jesus didn’t heal the pressing crowds just to prove He was sent from Heaven. He preached salvation by healing and saving people because He had deep compassion for the sick and oppressed. He could see they were like sheep without a shepherd. Their needs were so great, and they didn’t know where to go for help. Like lost sheep, they wandered aimlessly through life, sick and broken, alone and hopeless, desperate for a Shepherd who would love them, lead them, comfort them, and heal them. 

God has always been kind and merciful to His creation. He has shown His unfailing love and compassion throughout the ages. It was compassion that made Him restore Israel even though the people repeatedly failed to follow His commandments and heed His warnings to turn from their sin. It was compassion that overflowed in His heart when He healed the sick in spite of His own deep grief.

Today you may feel lost, but your Shepherd never stops looking for you. You may feel alone and misunderstood, but He is no stranger to your pain. He Himself endured much. He was mocked, spat on, whipped, and beaten beyond recognition. Nails pierced His hands and feet so you could be healed. He suffered and died to prove His love for you. He is the God of compassion. 

You are my Shepherd, Lord. I have wandered too long in this valley of pain and sickness. Too long have I lived in this shadow of death. Have compassion on me, Lord! Gather me in Your arms and carry me to safety! Lead me on Your pathway to health and restoration.