And they were openly hostile whenever their paths crossed. Sometimes adversity forces us to drop our barriers or to forget our prejudices. When this band of lepers saw Jesus they made a bold request. They didn't ask for healing, but instead asked for mercy. But mercy is something more than compassion, or heartfelt sorrow at another's misfortune.
Compassion empathizes with the sufferer.
A merciful person shares in another's misfortune and suffering as if it were his own. And he will do everything in his power to dispel that misery. Mercy is also connected with justice. Pardon without repentance negates justice. They know they are in need of healing, not just physical, but spiritual healing as well.