Christ Models Compassion
Jesus came to earth to begin his
kingdom & Matthew focuses on 10
miracles in Mt 8/9 demonstrating
Jesus’ power over disease, the
forces of nature & the spirit world.
Christ then bestows that same
power & authority on His chosen
apostles and sends them out
as ambassadors of the kingdom.
He first instructs them how to
act, then warns them of the
dangers they will face, as He calls
them to committed discipleship.
Lord, make us Compassionate:
The Pharisees said: Why does
your Teacher eat with sinners?
When Jesus heard that, He said:
Those who are well have no need
of a physician but those who are
sick. Go and learn the meaning
of this scripture: “I want you to
be merciful; I don’t want your
sacrifices.” For I did not come
to call the righteous but sinners
to repentance (Matt 9:12-13).
Two blind men followed Him
crying Son of David have mercy
on us!… And Jesus said: Do you
believe that I am able to do this?
They said… Yes Lord. Then Jesus
touched their eyes, saying: Acc to
your faith let it be to you (v27-29).
Jesus felt great compassion for
the crowds because their problems
were so great and they didn’t know
where to go for help. They were like
sheep without a shepherd. He said:
The harvest is so great but the
workers are so few. Ask the Lord
to send more workers (v35-38).
Lord, we realise that You are
showing us that You desire us to
be merciful than make sacrifices.
Thank You for being my Great
Physician and for never being
too busy to attend to my needs.
Guide me to dispense to others
the good medicine that You have
given to me. In Jesus’ name. Amen
Lord, we note the touching prayer
offered by the two blind men:
“Have Mercy on us” which not only
implies faith that Christ could restore
their sight, but also appeals to
His compassion & lovingkindness.
We’ll note that in our point of need.
And make us O Lord as Your people
to be more trusting, merciful and
compassionate. In Jesus’ name.
Lord, we pray that You will send
labourers who will bring Your
healing and transforming power
to the lives of people who don’t
know You as Saviour & shepherd.
Lead us not be self-centred but be
compassionate enough to be open
to join You in the harvest fields.
Lord of the harvest, let us witness
Your kingdom here on earth as it’s
in heaven. In Jesus’ name, Amen.