“When He saw the crowds, He felt
compassion for them, because they were
distressed and dejected, like sheep without
a shepherd.” Matthew 9:36
Let’s be honest. We are pretty self-centered
most of the time. Whether at a store or
restaurant our focus is usually our list, our
need, or those whom we are with. Truth is,
we just don’t see them. The crowds. They
are not on our radar. I just filled out a survey
for a recent instore visit. Did I interact with
a store associate: Yes. Were they friendly
and helpful: Yes. (I even called her by the
name on her nametag.) Could I recall her
name? Nope. Too focused on MY purchase.
My purpose. My mission….
We don’t see them. But Jesus did. It was His
mission. To seek and save the lost. He had
an advantage. He could see their hearts.
Their hurt, their pain, their fear, and every
other burden was laid bare before Jesus. Not
a thing was hidden from His view. He saw
them. Straight through to the heart.
And because He did see them, really see
them, He felt compassion for them. Jesus
hurt for them and with them. Knowing they
need not suffer alone, He yearned to help
meet their needs. And often called out:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and
burdened, and I will give you rest.”
Matthew 11:28
If only they would hear and respond.
Meeting their needs would bring Him joy. It
is His mission and purpose. To save people
from their sin, their mistakes, their
waywardness, and restore them to the
Father. To experience a full and meaningful
life in relationship with the Father. It is so
simple and yet so impossible without a
shepherd to lead them.
Sheep without a shepherd are vulnerable.
Lost. They wander aimlessly. They fall prey
to predators. Living in fear they don’t
experience true life. Instead, they settle for
much less. Always searching but never
finding true contentment. If only they knew
He is near. He is available. Relatable.
Accessible. Within their reach. All they need
is someone to tell them.
These lost sheep are all around us. They eat
and serve in our favorite restaurants. They
are in our banks, our parks, our grocery
stores, and our neighborhoods. You know
their faces. You have seen them. Just maybe
not consciously. Will you try?
Maybe if “we” saw them like Jesus saw
them, we might develop compassion for
them and feel their pain. We might be
compelled to tell them of the Good
Shepherd, who could lead them to life. If we
could only be a little less self-centered and
more people focused.
I am willing. How about you! Start today?
Because someone helped me see…
Bro. Sherman
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