Matthew 14:13-21
The key word in this passage is compassion. This takes place just after news of John's death reaches Jesus. Jesus, looking for some time alone, withdraws but the crowds find him. Rather than dismissing them, Jesus is moved by compassion for them and heals their sick. This is subtly contrasted to the disciple's reaction. Although they claim compassionate reasons, as the time for supper draws near, the logistics of feeding such a crowd overwhelm the disicples and they tell Jesus to dismiss the crowds so that they can go back home to eat.
This story really has it all: Jesus' authourity over illness, his compassion for people and his ability to do miraculous things like feed over 5000 people from a few loaves and fish. This story further supports Matthew's point that Jesus is the promised Messiah.
This story also supports the verse that the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many. Jesus' whole agenda was to serve others - even when he wanted some time alone he allowed his compassion for the crowds to move him toward service. I'm more like the disciples - when I see a crowd I don't always see people because I am distracted by the logistics of feeding and entertaining and accomodating them. I pray that I would have the heart of Jesus. I pray that I would respond out of compassion more often.
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1 comment:
It is so true, Jesus serves all the time, even when one of his closest friends has died. I am so compelled by his example. I just spoke on service and it is remarkable that Jesus even says if you want to be great be a servant to Peter and James later in Matthew 20, may our lives be all about serving as well, no excuses!
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