Compassion for the lost!
Mark 6:34 –When Jesus stepped out of the boat, he saw a large crowd. His heart went out to them because they were like sheep without a shepherd.
Does it pain you to see images of starving children flash across your television screen? There are places in the world where food and water are scarce. We have been blessed to have food and water in abundance compared to some places in the world. But even in our country, there are people in dire situations. Maybe you have seen them while driving around in the city. What happens to your heart when you view people who are struggling? Do you look to relieve them of pain, or do you look away? Do you feel sorry for them, or do you think they should get a job or some other help?
What did Jesus do when he faced the same situation? His insides churned within him, and his heart went out to them. They were craving help and they had no shepherd to lead them. So, Jesus took the time to help them. He gave them what they needed at that moment, food for the body and food for the soul. He would feed them in a miraculous way with only five loaves of bread and two fish. But more importantly, he was going to feed them spiritually by giving up his life and taking it back again as their Good Shepherd. That is exactly what Jesus is doing for you every day! The more you feed on his love, the more your heart will go out to those who are suffering.
Jesus’ compassion gives birth to our compassion. We may not be able to feed thousands with five loaves of bread and two fish, but we can help our neighbor, family member, or anyone else we see suffering. As our hearts go out to them, perhaps God will use this as an opportunity for us to bring them to the feet of the Good Shepherd, where they will feast on his forgiving love!
Dear compassionate Shepherd, thank you for showing your love and compassion to us. Help us remember your heart that reached out to us so that we in turn will have compassion for our fellow human beings. Let these moments give us opportunities to bring them to you so you can satisfy their greatest hunger and thirst! In your name we pray. Amen.