PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Mark 6:30-34
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“He had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd.” (Mark 6:34)
Imagine a field filled with sheep, but no shepherd.
Wandering, lost, eating when and where and whatever they can.
In time they are scattered, little groups here and there, many are dying.
Desperate, frightened, doing stupid things and one by one dying.
These people are desperate, so they latch on to Jesus.
Jesus cares for the sheep, even though they make it harder for Him.
I think this is how God feels when confronted with humans in their misery.
God’s heart breaks with how people in the world are wandering, lost and dying.
God sends Jesus, and Jesus sends us to have compassion on the many.
Taking care of ourselves is not enough (v.31) when others are in need.
Jesus sacrifices his “quiet place” out of compassion for others.
It seems to me that as Jesus followers we ought to be known for this too.
Desperate, needy, annoying, wandering sheep should feel welcome among us.
This is how God is with us and why Jesus dies for us… and what He sends us to do!
PRAYER
Lord, help us to stop judging and avoiding wandering sheep. Develop Your compassion in our hearts, so that we can be there for them like You are for us.
As excited at the disciples were to share their experiences and as Jesus wanted to find a quiet place so that he could listen – still people got in the way. I think that way – sometimes people are in my way – I got things I’m doing – rushing around for good purposes – but then needs block my way. Jesus did not see the people as a nuisance – his heart went out to them. Did he ignore his disciples – I think so – they were itching to get rid of the people and were seeking for an opportunity for Jesus to send then away. I must also so that there is a reason why someone is in front of me – needing my attention. I must be willing to be responsive/reactive – ready to take the time to listen and have compassion – its the Jesus way!
Sheep need a shepherd.
The shepherd leads all the sheep. He takes them to pastures green. He is their security. Their provider. Their protector. Their guardian. Their lifeline.
Help me daily to follow Your leading Lord.
Savior, like a shepherd lead us, much we need Thy tender care;
In Thy pleasant pastures feed us, for our use Thy folds prepare.
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus! Thou hast bought us, Thine we are.
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus! Thou hast bought us, Thine we are.