27th Day of Lent
Who Are in the Crowds?
"He saw a great crowd, and he had compassion for them." Mark 6:34

The disciples were tired.  They had been sent out by Jesus two by two to do just what he had been doing- preaching, teaching, and healing the sick.  Jesus was probably tired as well.  For even as he sent them out, he continued to preach, teach, and heal as well.  He may also have been emotionally exhausted, for by now he must have heard that his cousin, John the Baptist, the one who prepared his way, and been murdered by Herod.

So Jesus suggested they all go away to a "deserted place" for rest and nourishment.  They went away in a boat, but many people saw them leave and apparently knew the place they were headed.  The crowd was waiting for Jesus and the disciples as they stepped off the boat.  I know what my reaction would have been.  "Leave me alone!  I need a break.  I can't help you all right now."  But not Jesus.  He had compassion on them.  He knew they were lost people looking for direction.  He was the one that could guide them to God's new kingdom.  So he didn't send them away.  He had compassion on them and began to teach them many things.

Jesus felt what they were feeling.  That's compassion.  How many people do we encounter every day that could use someone to show them a little compassion?  Is it possible that we could be that someone?  I think it is.  All that we need to do is stop what we're so busy doing, and notice the one in need.  I know when I've been hurting for whatever reason, when someone actually takes the time to notice and listen, it makes all the difference.  So, keep your eyes open today.  With whom might you share compassion?