“When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them…” – Matthew 9:36 (NIV)
The Gospels tell us that when Jesus saw the people, He did not turn away; He was moved with compassion because they were “…harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” (Matthew 9:36 – NKJV). This is not a passing glance. Jesus truly sees them. He sees exhaustion, confusion, hunger, sickness, and spiritual longing. And His response is not irritation, judgement, or withdrawal — it is compassion.
The word used for compassion here is deep and visceral. It describes something that stirs in the gut, a love that refuses to remain detached. Jesus does not love from a distance. He allows Himself to be affected by the condition of the people before Him.
What is striking is that Jesus feels compassion even when He Himself was tired; He had hoped to withdraw and rest. Yet love interrupts the plan. The needs of the people mattered more than convenience. Compassion reshaped the day.
This is the power of love — it moves us beyond ourselves. Love sees clearly and responds faithfully. Jesus’ compassion did [and does] not stop with emotion; it led to action. He taught them. He healed them. He fed them. Love became presence, instruction, and provision.
In a world where people are still harassed and helpless — overworked, overlooked, wounded by systems and relationships — Jesus’ compassion has not changed. He still looks at the crowd. He still sees. And He still invites His followers to carry that same compassionate gaze into the world.
The power of love is not found in having all the answers. It is found in being willing to see people as they are and respond with mercy. Compassion is not weakness; it is the very heart of God on display.
Let us ask ourselves, who is part of the “crowd” in our lives that Jesus may be calling us to truly see — not with judgement, but with compassion.
Prayer
Loving Saviour, help me to see others as You see them, without judgement and in love. Soften my heart, open my eyes, and move me to love in ways that heal and restore. Let Your compassion flow through me for the sake of the world, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Read: Mark 6:34; Colossians 3:12
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 22:1-11; Mark 1:1-28; Exodus 17; Exodus 18