Gospel Truth in Mark 6 (Oct 18)

Be Caring & Compassionate

Through both His words and works,
Christ proclaims His true identity
to the disciples and the multitudes.
At first even His companions are
perplexed by His power & authority,
wondering: What manner of man
is this, that even the wind and
the sea obey Him. But patiently –
through the miracles of exorcism,
healing and even raising the dead
the Master Servant works to
convince His followers of the
nature of His person and mission.

Lord, we will be Compassionate:
(Jesus) said to them: Come with
me by yourself to a quiet place
and get some rest. There were
many coming & going and they did
not even have time to eat (Mk6:31)
When Jesus landed and saw a
large crowd, He had compassion
on them, because they were
like sheep without a Shepherd.
So he began teaching them
many things (Mark 6:34).
By this time it was late in the day,
so his disciples said: Send the pple
away so that they can buy food to
eat. But Jesus answered: You give
them something to eat. (v35-36)

Lord, I recognise in the creation
story the work-rest, work-rest
rhythm built by God into life.
When we violate this natural order
by excessive work or ministry,
we will soon burn out. No wonder
Jesus deliberately scheduled
retreat for himself & his disciples.
I sometimes feel drained physically
and spiritually. Give me the wisdom
to recognise the warning signs
of burnout. For I can’t be effective
for You if I am running on empty.
I want the rest that You offer. Amen

Lord, You know needs of people
and You responded accordingly.
We are to care for the weak
and to encourage the timid.
Lord, Grant us wisdom to respond
correctly with the right words
and at the right time. Above all
grant us the kind of compassion
that is like yours; so that when
we reach out to others, that
they may see You. Amen.

Lord, You created in our soul,
mind, will and also emotion.
Let us be renewed in our mind
as we meditate on Your Word.
Let us be yielded to the Holy
Spirit as we respond to the Word.
And let our emotions be under
the control of the Holy Spirit.
Lord we want to feel Yr emotions.
As You had promised a new heart
do also put Your feelings within us.
And let us be moved with
compassion just as Jesus. Amen.