Jesus’ compassion

MATTHEW 9:32-38

AS Jesus and His disciples were going out, a demoniac who could not speak was brought to Jesus, and when the demon was driven out, the mute person spoke. The crowds were amazed and said, “Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel.” But the Pharisees said, “He drives out demons by the prince of demons.”

Jesus went around to all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and curing every disease and illness. At the sight of the crowds, His heart was moved with pity for them because they were troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd. Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.”

REFLECTION

Jesus went around… teaching… proclaiming… curing… Here we see that Jesus is always available for people. He is ready to do good things for them. He is teaching and curing them, proclaiming the arrival of God’s kingdom. With His words and works Jesus is helping and healing His people. But the Pharisees are there to criticize and contradict Him. They question His words and condemn His works. They even accuse Him that He drives out demons by the prince of demons.

In spite of the indifference and bitter accusations of the Pharisees, Jesus continues His saving works. He fulfills the Father’s will. He is not discouraged or frustrated in doing good even if people contradict His plans and criticize His actions.

To labor for the Lord’s harvest is a life of service and self-sacrifice. Hard work is required. Opposition is a reality. But we must have faith in the master of the harvest.

Let us not give up reliving God’s works even if people question our motives and doubt our capacities. Let us continue to be laborers for the harvest now and always even without reward or recognition.

SOURCE: “366 Days with the Lord 2012,” ST PAULS, 7708 St. Paul Rd., SAV, Makati City (Phils.); Tel.: 895-9701; Fax 895-7328; E-mail: books@stpauls.ph; Website: http://www.stpauls.ph