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. Mark 6:34, ESV

 

We all know people who are in need. In fact, in our country, it's impossible not to see masses of people in our daily lives walking the streets for jobs or sitting dejectedly on the grass. Hungry, desperate individuals stand at traffic lights hoping for handouts from motorists, while others knock on doors or seek help from churches and other organisations.

 

So it was very frustrating to hear news reports, after the General Election that the parties and leaders were bickering as they focused on securing positions – for as long as it took to work out – while neglecting cooperative efforts to focus on addressing the people’s pressing needs. The irony was that these politicians were elected on the strength of their promises to serve – surely a spirit of mutual concern, not a power struggle, was top priority?

 

How differently Jesus showed his concern for people; he never ceased to amaze and inspire with the depth of his love and care that he displayed. Henri Nouwen said, “We cannot love issues, but we can love people, and the love of people reveals to us the way to deal with issues”, and perhaps this is the heart of it.

 

The disciples had returned from their mission and were reporting back to Jesus, but because of the many people coming and going, they were not able to get a chance to eat. Jesus recognised that they were exhausted and called them to go with him “to a quiet place and get some rest” (Mark 6:31, NIV) – a good healthy plan – but the crowd in their need were desperate to hear Jesus again and got there ahead of him. Jesus immediately set the example, as he looked with compassion on the needy crowd and taught them.

 

“He had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd”, from our verse today, speaks very poignantly about Jesus’ heart for people. Even “a great crowd” he saw as many vulnerable and needy individuals, lacking understanding and direction. He put aside his and his disciples’ needs, in order to teach them about the righteousness that they were eager to continue learning about; but often, in the case of the authorities, “he looked around at them with anger, grieved at their hardness of heart.” (Mark 3:5)

 

We too need to examine our hearts and our capacity for compassion in our own lives. How do we respond to others in need, whether to the individuals in our families or those out on the street?

 

What is our priority?

 

Prayer: Loving Lord Jesus, please help me to make your priorities my priorities and teach me to love as you love. Amen