It All Begins with Compassion (Mark 8)

It is not easy reading through the Gospels in consecutive months. There is a definite danger of deja vu. That is especially true with the "mass feedings" like we have here in Mark 8. Since Matthew and Mark both feature Jesus' feeding of the 4,000 and the 5,000, it is easy to think that we have heard this all before. It would seem like there would be nothing new to say.

As I read Mark 8, I was reminded of the thoughts that I had in Matthew. In the miracle of the loaves and the fishes, we see that Christ can do a great deal with a little if only we will give that little to Him. But today, I saw why we give that little. It is an act of compassion. This great miracle that Jesus does starts with His compassion for the crowd. Where we would see a nameless, faceless mass, Jesus sees need. He is genuinely concerned for the well-being of those who follow Him. It is radical compassion that leads to the blessing of the little for the many.

I am challenged to have compassion like Jesus. God doesn't do great things through the little that we can offer until we have His heart for others. I need a more compassionate heart. Instead of being overwhelmed by the needs I see each day, I need to know that compassion unlocks the power of God so that I can make a difference and help others.

God, give me Your heart of compassion for the needs I see around me. In your power, make the little that I can give a great blessing to others.