But the multitudes saw them departing, and many knew Him and ran there on foot from all the cities. They arrived before them and came together to Him. And Jesus, when He came out, saw a great multitude and was moved with compassion for them, because they were like sheep not having a shepherd. So He began to teach them many things.
Mark 6:33-34
Isn't it wonderful to know that Jesus is full of compassion? This is one of the things that makes our Lord distinct from the religions in our world. God is not angry with you, nor does He desire you to accomplish works in hopes that you will appease and please Him. He sees you and has compassion on you.
The Greek word for compassion is very strong. It has to do with the emotion you feel way down deep in your gut. Have you ever had butterflies in your stomach? Or, have you even felt so much pain or stress that you could hardly breathe? When you're emotional to the extreme, your whole physical being feels it. And that's the kind of compassion Jesus had; when He saw the people who desperately needed Him, He was moved through His whole being. This is how much Jesus loves you. He has so much compassion for you.
And imagine what it would be like if we showed just an ounce of this kind of compassion for others. When you see people, do you see them as Jesus sees them? Or do you judge them and criticize them for not being like you? Jesus saw their need and, from His entire being, felt compassion for them. But it just wasn't a feeling; He did something about it! So, how are you showing Christ-like compassion to others?
"But You, O Lord, are a God full of compassion, and gracious, Longsuffering and abundant in mercy and truth" (Psalm 86:15).
"The Lord is gracious and full of compassion, Slow to anger and great in mercy" (Psalm 145:8).
"Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous" (1 Peter 3:8).
