Prayer for dads

Father, in Mark 1:41, Jesus saw a leper and was moved with compassion. He reached out and touched him. He did not have to. He chose to. The touch was the message.

I have been cautious lately. Careful about getting too close to messy people. Careful about my friend going through a divorce. Careful about the family at church whose kid is in trouble. Some caution makes sense. But sometimes I just stay away when I should move closer.

Soften me where I have gone careful. Move me with compassion, even a little, toward one person this week who is being kept at arm's length by everyone, including me. Let me make contact — a phone call, a meal, a presence.

Lord Jesus, You touched the untouchable. Help me do the same in some small way. Give me courage to get close when every instinct says to pull back.

Amen.