“And it came to pass the day after, that he went into a city called Nain; and many of his disciples went with him, and much people. Now when he came nigh to the gate of the city, behold, there was a dead man carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow: and much people of the city was with her.” Luke 7:11-12
Broken-hearted, discouraged, and forlorn, the young widow walked beside the bier of her only son. Although she was surrounded by others from the city, she felt all alone. Why had God allowed her son to die? How could she go on alone? Tears flowed freely as a dark lonely future loomed before her.
As the procession passed through the city gates, they met a crowd of people. Suddenly the leader of the group stopped, looked at the widow, and spoke two words to her: “Weep not.” Then He did something strange, He came close and touched the bier, saying: “Young man, I say unto thee, Arise.”
Who was this stranger who would be brave enough to touch a dead person, and command them to arise? Can you imagine the joy she felt when her son sat up and began to speak to her? Her mourning turned to rejoicing.
Jesus had compassion when he saw the woman weeping. Because He knew all things, He knew how she was feeling. By restoring her son to life, He was meeting her deepest needs. He gave her back her son and gave her hope for the future. He did not ask her if she believed in Him. He simply saw her need and met it. As a result, all of those who were there recognized Jesus and glorified God. Luke 7:16 “And there came a fear on all: and they glorified God, saying, That a great prophet is risen up among us; and, That God hath visited his people.”
This widow’s story gives us hope and comfort. Jesus has compassion for each one of us. He sees every tear that we shed, and He knows our deepest needs. He gave His life on Calvary so that we might have eternal life. As our loving Heavenly Father, He desires to daily provide for us and bless us abundantly.
Lamentations 3:21-23 “This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.”
The greatest miracle that Jesus can perform in our lives, is when He redeems us from a life of sin and makes us His child. But I am thankful for all the times He has met my needs – healing for me and my family, comfort in times of sorrow, financial blessings, and just being there through all the difficulties of life. Truly, His compassion never fails.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for your great faithfulness, for all the blessings you bestow, and for the hope and comfort that you provide.
Devotion by Anne Johnston
1 Comment
Grateful. 😊 Ty for sharing. ❤️