Your Neighbor Needs What You Have
Compassion – Part 2

Scripture Reading:  Matthew 9:35-38

Key Verse: Matthew 9:36

When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.

Picking up where we lift off yesterday, we want to remind ourselves that compassion must be our guide.  In our printed key verse Jesus looked at the crowds and was moved with compassion.  He knew that most of them were sinners—people far from what they ought to be!  He understood that many of them were hurting because of their own bad choices, but Jesus also understood that the reason people make poor choices is that they are void of God’s Spirit within them.  Jesus was able to look beyond their faults and see their needs.

As Christ followers we must have the same attitude (Philippians 2:5).  We must learn to look beyond a person’s faults—beyond whether they brought it upon themselves or not—and show compassion.  In my opinion, we may have to act out compassion at times even when we may not feel compassionate.  As in most things in our lives, we do what is right and not demand to feel like doing it.  The more we do compassionate deeds, the more likely the feelings will soon develop within us!

Jesus used that long Greek word we talked about yesterday in the Good Samaritan story.  He said that the Samaritan took pity on the hurting man.  The Good Samaritan had what the man needed; we have it as well!

Father, you have put within me the desire to help hurting people.  Help me to use it wisely and not waste it.  In Jesus’ name, amen.