“Now when Jesus heard about John, He withdrew from there in a boat to a secluded place by Himself; and when the people heard about this, they followed Him on foot from the cities. When He came ashore, He saw a large crowd, and felt compassion for them and healed their sick” (Matthew 14:13-14).
We all mourn for the loss of family and friends. Did Jesus withdraw to mourn? We do not know. Fully man, this world troubled Him as well. Yet, in His compassion, He did not stay by Himself but met the crowd and loved them. We have this example to remind us to not withdraw into ourselves, but to always be willing to be compassionate to others. This world is filled with those who long to meet Jesus.
Lord, grant me the ability to remember that our time here is short and that every moment provides an opportunity to share the Good News of salvation with others. Lead me in Your way of compassion so that I may have a willingness to share Your compassion even when I do not feel like it. Guide me in all the steps of this life so that, like You, I am willing to move beyond my feelings and do what needs to be done.
Without You, Lord Jesus, this would be impossible. Through the Holy Spirit which is in me, guide me to always take every opportunity to be gracious, compassionate, merciful, and kind to others. By Your grace, forgive me when I ignore what needs to be done, but always bring me to repentance to sustain the hope within me as I live this life which You have given me. Lead me on the narrow path. Amen.
