Jesus’ Compassion

This year I learned more about Jesus through the compassion and the mercy of the men and women who worked at the front lines in the fight against COVID-19. They put their lives on the line each day to save people, even early on when we didn’t know a lot about the disease and the risks were very high. 

Surely 2020 has gone into the history of the world as a turning point for our planet. There are few aspects of life that were not affected by this terrible pandemic. Along with almost everyone, I had to stay in my home for what seemed an endless number of days. So many of the activities that filled our lives, including travel, became somewhat irrelevant. And in the wake of terrifying news about deaths and sickness, many reflected on what are the things that really matter in this life.  

I learned more about Jesus’ care for each of us, for our very hearts, for our humanity, not for our trophies, accomplishments, rank, or any other status symbols. I think this passage is so poignant to me because Jesus emphasizes that the shepherd rejoices over the one sheep that got away and was found. He rejoices over each one of us he finds and brings back. He really does care about us in an intimate and personal way – no matter our weaknesses, our sins, our quarks, our insecurities. Where we as humans often want to other those who are different, who don’t fit our idea of a good person, Jesus goes out of his way to seek and find them. His compassion and grace are infinite.  

In John 3:17 Jesus says to Nicodemus that “God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him.” His death and resurrection making a path for us to the Father. Like many of our first responders and health care workers, he lays down his life. He does not wish any of us to perish, but to enjoy everlasting life in him. This year, I learned more about Jesus’ compassion, humility, and ultimate sacrifice for each of us.

Key Quotation

The shepherd rejoices over the one sheep that got away and was found. He rejoices over each one of us he finds and brings back.

Question

How does our Savior personally connect with you? With the cry of your soul?

José Antonio de Dios, Wycliffe USA