Two blind men were sitting by the roadside, and when they heard that Jesus was going by, they shouted, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!” The crowd rebuked them and told them to be quiet, but they shouted all the louder, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!” Jesus stopped and called them. “What do you want me to do for you?” he asked. “Lord,” they answered, “we want our sight.” Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him.
Matthew 20:30-34

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I wish the best way to care for people in need was more obvious. I mean, is it always beneficial to show up with donations when I perceive someone is under-resourced? How do I know when to drop everything and call 911? Or is a longer-term approach to care and partnership healthier? Whether a need demands immediate attention or ongoing support, I’ve discovered it’s always important to resist the quick fix.

Have you noticed that first responders typically start by asking questions before providing treatment? This same approach is vital for living out God-honoring compassion. When we lead with curiosity, it enhances our discernment regarding wise ways to serve individuals and communities in need. Yes, everyone deserves love, dignity, hope, and equitable access to lifegiving resources and relationships. But swooping in to rescue people rarely helps in the long run. Instead of forcing care, it’s important to invite people in need to participate in healing over time as they’re able. And that’s what we see Christ do with two blind men in Matthew 20:30-34.

Wait, doesn’t verse 34 say Jesus restored their sight on the spot? Yes, but He still resisted the quick fix. Instead of walking by and waving His healing hand, Christ let them interrupt His travels. Then, He led with curiosity before providing timely care. And knowing the obvious answer didn’t stop Jesus from patiently and purposefully asking, “What do you want me to do for you?” (v. 32) His compassion moved Him deep inside, but He never let His emotions short-circuit the best path to lasting transformation.

When it comes to enacting compassion, following Christ will help us address the complex spectrum between immediate needs and longer-term care. We can start by leading with curiosity—a crucial first step if we desire to love people like Jesus. As all kinds of needs surface, we’ll be more inclined to pass on the quick fix so that we can honor and connect with whoever God allows to cross our path.

Next Steps

Today, be prepared to ask someone, “What do you want me to do for you?” It will help you practice curiosity, as well as enact compassion by serving a person’s needs more specifically and meaningfully. Consider sharing your answer to Jesus’ question and a way He’s given you care and healing.

Curious about the complexities of compassion ministry? Read When Helping Hurts by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert.