“Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching…, preaching…, and healing every disease and sickness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.”
Matthew 9:36
When Jesus saw the crowds around Him, He was moved with concern for them. The magnitude of human need and helplessness struck Him with an almost physical force. The origins of the words indicate that Jesus was “pulled apart inside” by the devastation of sin. But He didn’t leave it there, as we often are tempted to do. He did something: He fed them; He taught them; He healed them. Ultimately, He died for them, “healing those that were oppressed by the devil” (Acts 10:38, KJV).
We who are in Christ also will be moved with compassion for those around us who are oppressed by the devil in one way or another. Following His example, we can pray for them, offer help to them, and talk to them about Jesus just as one starving person tells another where to find bread.
The magnitude of human suffering may overwhelm us. Have you at times fallen into a routine of being sentimental about it but not doing anything about it? Out of gratitude that He came to heal you in your suffering, help those the Lord places in your path.
We who are in Christ also will be moved with compassion for those around us who are oppressed by the devil in one way or another. Following His example, we can pray for them, offer help to them, and talk to them about Jesus just as one starving person tells another where to find bread.
The magnitude of human suffering may overwhelm us. Have you at times fallen into a routine of being sentimental about it but not doing anything about it? Out of gratitude that He came to heal you in your suffering, help those the Lord places in your path.
Scripture Focus
1 Thessalonians 2:6-12
Insight
“Every act of kindness and compassion done by any man for his fellow Christian is done by Christ working within him” (Julian of Norwich, 1343-1416).
Bible In A Year
- Genesis 39-40
- Psalm 20
- Matthew 28
