A Heart of Compassion

Mk. 6:34

"When he went ashore he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. And he began to teach them many things."

The crowds followed Jesus because he had met their physical needs, needs involving healing from terrible, life-altering physical ailments. What fervor must have resulted! What a frenzy characterized the mob of people who came just to touch the hem of His garment! They all wanted something from Jesus. They wanted Jesus to make their lives better physically.
 
As Jesus and His disciples were going to a desolate place to rest, the crowd caught sight of them again. What did they do again? They ran on foot to the towns that would be on their root. They were eagerly waiting for them to arrive. Into this scene came Jesus and His disciples. Was Jesus bothered? Did He think enough is enough? Did He think He had healed His quota for the day? Did He think He needed some 'me-time.' No, He had compassion on the people. What a heart! On what was His compassion based? Was it their physical ailments or physical hunger? No, He had compassion on them because they were sheep without a shepherd. He looked past the exterior to the deep longing in their heart. He saw the condition of their souls. That condition cried out to Him because He was the only one who could fill that longing. What is my heart toward the crowds of people that do not know Jesus? Do I look past their physical condition and needs to their heart condition? Do I have compassion on them?
 
Father,
Give me a heart of compassion. Strengthen me to share You to the lost sheep of the world.
In Jesus name,
Amen