What Would Jesus Say To Us?

Intro

The last several days have been difficult. We’ve been shocked, we’ve are saddened. And if these days have been difficult for me and for you, then I cannot imagine how hard they’ve been for our brother, his family and those affected by these events. In times like this we look to God for comfort and for help. I’ve been doing the same. I’ve been wondering if Jesus were here, what would He say to us? I’m sure He would have much to say, but in looking at some passages from Luke, I think He might say the following...

“I am willing… I am able” ()

The leper (vss. 12-16)

Many would have associated the man’s disease with sin, believing it was divine justice meted out due to his transgressions. Hence his statement to Jesus, “if you are willing...”

Furthermore, none would have been willing to touch the man. He was unclean, he was untouchable.

Jesus was willing.

The paralytic (vss. 17-26)

If anyone had been able to heal this man, they would have done so already.

But the physical malady was one thing, the spiritual malady was on a whole other level. No one would have said they were able to help, no one would have dared.

Jesus was able.

As awful as this situation is, our Lord would have us know that He is willing… He is able.

As awful as my own sins are, my Savior would have me know that He is willing… He is able.

As awful as your sins are, your Savior would have you know that He is willing… He is able.

“Learn compassion” ()

The Pharisees could not comprehend how Jesus would willingly spend time with sinners.

Jesus’ response was two-fold:

He came for the sick

They needed to learn compassion (see )

Over the last few days, I have been angry with my brother. I love him, but I’ve been angry with him. I’ve been angry over how this situation has affected him, his family and this church.

Jesus says to me, learn compassion. My brother has sinned, and I know all to well how awful sin is.

And perhaps this situation will help us be compassionate toward others

Compassion is somewhat easier when it involves someone you already love.

But what about those we don’t know, the people who are not like us or are not part of our church? The people we readily ridicule when they stumble?

Jesus says to us, “learn compassion”.

“Repent” ()

Some falls or more public, more sensational than others. Some stumbles grab our attention.

Jesus says to each of us, repent. He does not wish for us to perish.

And so, if the events of this past week have not already moved you to repent of the wrongs in your life, heed the words of Jesus: REPENT!

Repent for filling your heart with lust. Put pornography away, reach out for help and accountability.

Repent for behavior that does not reflect the nature of God. Put away all lying, cursing, hateful speech and actions. Model the character of your holy God.

Repent for not seeking first His Kingdom and His righteousness. Remove whatever is hindering you from following the Lord.