Devotions with Pastor Michael

When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. (Matthew 9:36)
 
You will always have an excuse to justify not getting involved in other people’s lives.  When you come across someone in need, just get ready—a conversation in your head will begin.  “I wish I could help, but I’m already running late.  I don’t know these people.  I’ve got so much going on.  What if they aren’t really in need?  Or what if they end up being super needy?”
 
Sound familiar?  Yes, we are busy.  We have hectic schedules and lots of demands on our time, energy, and resources.  Yes, it is inconvenient and means our plans will get changed.  It’s also what Jesus did over and over again—he saw a need and loved, healed, helped, and listened to them.
 
The conversation in your head will likely keep playing, but to say we care and not act is not really caring at all.  We are called to care so deeply that we have to act.
 
Compassion will often interrupt your schedule.  So, ask yourself, do you want to be on time to your next appointment?  Or do you want to be more like Jesus?
 
-Pastor Michael

Photo by Tanner Yould on Unsplash