Compassion
In Mark 6, the apostles return from their first ministry trip, excited to share their experiences with Jesus.
“So they went out and preached that people should repent. And they cast out many demons, and anointed with oil many who were sick, and healed them.” Mark 6:12-13 (NKJV)
“Then the apostles gathered to Jesus and told Him all things, both what they had done and what they had taught.” Mark 6:30 (NKJV)
The disciples’ report was filled with accounts of successful ministry – preaching repentance, casting out demons, healing the sick. Yet, Jesus’ response brings up an often overlooked part of ministry.
“And He said to them, ‘Come aside by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.’ For there were many coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat. So they departed to a deserted place in the boat by themselves.” Mark 6:31-32 (NKJV)
As they sought rest, the multitudes followed. Jesus, moved with compassion, taught them many things and performed the miracle of feeding the 5,000. Despite the disciples' weariness, Jesus' compassion took precedence.
“For they had not understood about the loaves, because their heart was hardened.” Mark 6:52 (NKJV)
The disciples were so focused on the inconveniences and impossibilities that they missed the significance of Jesus’ miracles. A hardened heart can prevent us from fully appreciating and understanding the preaching and power of Jesus.
“Send them away, that they may go into the surrounding country and villages and buy themselves bread; for they have nothing to eat.” Mark 6:36 (NKJV)
When faced with the hungry crowd, the disciples’ immediate reaction was to send them away to fend for themselves.
Jesus saw beyond the inconvenience.
He recognized the people's needs and responded with compassion. Later, Jesus sends the disciples ahead of Him, and they encounter a storm.
“Immediately He made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, to Bethsaida, while He sent the multitude away.” Mark 6:45 (NKJV)
In this moment of fear and need, Jesus comes to them, walking on water, calming their fears and the storm. They are dependent on Jesus. In their moment of need, Jesus was there – He saw them, came to them, spoke to them, joined them, and took authority over their circumstances.
Jesus is not inconvenienced by our neediness.
He saw us, came to us, spoke to us, and joined us. He took authority over the wind—our circumstances.
As they sought rest, the multitudes followed. Jesus, moved with compassion, taught them many things and performed the miracle of feeding the 5,000. Despite the disciples' weariness, Jesus' compassion took precedence.
I think we fear that showing compassion will leave us drained and depleted. However, just as Jesus advised his disciples to rest, it is important for us to take time for rejuvenation. Acts of kindness and generosity can actually empower and strengthen us.
