Jesus Healed Peter’s Mother-in-law: Matthew 8:14-17; Mark 1:29-34; Luke 4:38-41
These texts tell the story of Jesus healing Peter’s mother-in-law. He also healed many sick and demon possessed. He cast out the demons who proclaim Him Son of God.
From this story let’s look at the devotional called
Compassion Beyond Words
The house was quiet when Jesus entered, but he could sense the suffering within its walls. As he stepped inside, he saw her – Peter’s mother-in-law, lying ill with burning fever. Feelings of compassion awoke within Jesus’ heart. This woman was family to his close friend, and she needed relief. Without hesitation, Jesus went to her, took her hand, and helped her up. Power flowed through his touch and she was healed. Overflowing with newfound energy, she began serving them.
This tender scene holds gentle lessons for us. First, Jesus’ compassion ignites healing. He saw this woman’s struggle and acted. Compassion is more than an emotion – it compels us to alleviate others’ distress. When we encounter pain, it should use us to respond. Our empathy can spark comfort, progress and restoration.
Second, actions speak louder than words. Though undoubtedly kind, Jesus didn’t merely offer verbal comfort – he leveraged his power to rescue Peter’s mother-in-law from affliction. Likewise, soothing words often fall short without accompanying efforts. As Christ’s followers, we are called to lives of service, not just noble philosophies. Deeds of substance reach far beyond proclamations of virtue.
Finally, Peter’s mother-in-law models how blessing elicits gratitude, and gratitude turns to service. Healed by Christ’s hand, her health restored, her first impulse was to give to others. When we receive God’s gifts, great or small, may we pass along the goodness we’ve known. For freely we have received, so freely may we give.
Lonnie Davis