36When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. 38Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field." (Matthew 9:36-38)
It is sometimes difficult for us to appreciate the depth of Jesus' emotions. We experience hurt and pain when others suffer. So did Jesus. But for him, compassion went so much deeper. The Greek word used for compassion in the scriptures, describes powerful feelings from deep within one's inner being. What was it that aroused such feelings in Jesus? Basically it was the tragic spiritual condition of his people. He looked at the crowds following him, he compared them to harassed, helpless sheep without a shepherd. The compassion felt by Jesus lead him to action. He ministered to the people both physically and spiritually.
Doesn't this sound a bit like our generation. In these troubled times, it appears that a great many of us are spiritually bankrupt. Doesn't it seem that we are a bunch of lost sheep looking for a shepherd.
It is time that we slow down our fast paced lives, quiet ourselves and and listen for the voice of our shepherd. Jesus is our shepherd, we just need to learn to recognize his voice calling out to us. He is always there.
Peace and love,
Sue
"Be still and know that I am God"(Psalm 46:10)
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