Compassion For Crowds

Impact:

Jesus impacted cities with compassion. Let’s look at how Jesus responded to people in Matthew 9.

Jesus said this to the Pharisees who questioned why He befriended sinners, “Go and find out what is meant by the scripture that says: ‘It is kindness that I want, not animal sacrifices.’” (Matt. 9:13a) The original Greek word translated as “kindness” here, means to show pity or compassion towards hurting people.

Jesus performed powerful miracles to heal the sick and demon-possessed. A woman had been bleeding for twelve years. She merely touched Jesus’ cloak and was healed. (Matt. 9:22) Jesus raised a young girl back to life. (Matt 9:25) Jesus delivered a man from a demon that kept him from speaking. (Matt 9:33) Two blind men recognized the compassion that was pouring out of Jesus and said, “Have mercy on us, Son of David!” (Matt. 9:27) By faith in God’s mercy they received their sight (Matt 9:29).

Matthew, who wrote this book, had personally experienced God’s compassion when Jesus ate with him and his ‘sinner’ friends. After that fresh experience, Matthew describes his perception of Jesus beautifully in Matthew 9:36: “As he saw the crowds, his heart was filled with pity for them, because they were worried and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” We must learn what it means to have compassion for people if we are going to impact our cities the way Jesus did.

Prayer:

Jesus, stir my heart with compassion for the broken and hurting around me. Teach me what it means to show “kindness” when I travel through my city.