Jesus Opened His Ears

Jesus was in a region called the Decapolis. Some people brought him a man who could not hear well and had difficulty speaking.

They wanted Jesus to help him. The man also needed respectful care, without being made into a show for everyone.

Jesus took him a little way away from the crowd.

He came close to give him personal attention. He used gestures the man could see and understand, bringing his hands near his ears and attending to his difficulty speaking.

Jesus looked toward heaven and sighed. Then he gave the instruction for the man's ears to open.

The man could hear and speak clearly.

His difficulty had changed. People who knew him were amazed by what Jesus had done.

Jesus asked them not to announce it everywhere. But the people were so surprised that they kept telling others.

They said that Jesus did everything well.

Jesus' care teaches us to think about how another person can receive our help.

If someone hears differently from us, we can face them when we speak, use helpful gestures, and ask what works for them. We do not need to shout or make fun of them.

Some people use sign language, hearing devices, or other ways to communicate. Everyone deserves attention and friendship.

The man in this story received a miracle. Our kindness should not depend on someone changing how they hear or speak.

We can make room for people just as they are.

Jesus gave personal attention. We can also pause and treat each person with respect.

Jesus cares and helps, and we can share his kindness.