The Cost of Compassion
“For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted” (Luke 14:11).
MAIN POINT: True greatness is measured by our willingness to serve others at personal cost.
Jesus follows the healing with a parable about humility, but it’s directly connected to His compassionate action. Healing the man with dropsy wasn’t convenient or comfortable for Jesus. It created conflict, drew criticism, and challenged the religious establishment. But love compelled Him to act despite the personal cost. This is the humility Jesus calls us to embrace—putting others’ needs before our comfort, reputation, or convenience.
Compassion always comes with a price tag. It costs time when our schedules are full, energy when we’re tired, resources when our budgets are tight, and sometimes reputation when others don’t understand our choices. The Lutheran Church Charities teams who responded to the Chatham tragedy gave up their weekends, traveled at their own expense, and opened their hearts to others’ pain. This is love made visible—costly, sacrificial, transformative.
Application: True greatness isn’t found in elevating ourselves but in lowering ourselves to lift others up. Where is God calling you to embrace the cost of compassion today?
Prayer: Jesus, You humbled Yourself to the point of death for my sake. Give me courage to follow Your example of costly love. In Your holy name, Amen.
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