When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.[1] Matthew 9:36. As you read this brief passage you begin to receive insight into the heart of our Savior Jesus. He first looks with his eyes and this moves His heart to fill with compassion. He does not complain about how the people should have been doing this or that. He does not rush to judgment. He sees their real issue. They need a shepherd because they are like helpless sheep.
As the Lost Son returns home, what would his father do or say? As he travels home, he was probably filled with these questions. What happens when I sin and fall short and ask my heavenly Father to forgive me? Our story from Luke 15 of the Lost Son gives us insight into the heart of our heavenly Father. “So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him.[2] Luke 11:20
In both of these passages (Mat. 9:36 & Luke 11:20) we see the heart of God towards others. This is the same heart the Lord has for us. And in turn, the same heart He wants us to have for people around us.
Paul writes in Ephesians 3:12-14 –Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 13 Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. 14 Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.[3]
Do you want more love and compassion for others? Pray and ask the Lord for the fruits of the Spirit so you have the same heart He does for others. Let the potter do His work in you!
Isaiah 64:8 – And yet, O Lord, you are our Father. We are the clay, and you are the potter. We all are formed by your hand. [4]
To hear a conversation about the Parable of the Lost Son, listen here: https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/series/journey-with-the-divine-intruder/the-character-of-the-divine-intruder
[1, 2, 3, 4] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Mt 9:36, Luke 15:20, Col. 3:12-14, Isaiah 64:8). Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers.