When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things.

(Mark 6:34)

Mark 6: 30-34  

This group of “lost sheep” needed a leader like Jesus to come along and help them see how they had been exploited and oppressed by an unjust system. These “fat sheep” (Ezekiel 34:17-24) leaders controlled and manipulated but never provided a protective and loving leadership. Instead, they took from their people to feed themselves, despised and neglected them.

Jesus wanted to teach and show them how to value their dignity. Jesus wanted them to see how they could live in a dignified society. They needed to know and understand God loved them and wanted them to have a better life.

Jesus became the divine shepherd of this flock, feeding God’s people “with knowledge and understanding” (Jeremiah 3:15). Jesus did not refuse the sheep who came to him. 

Jesus is compassionate to those in need of ministry and those carrying out ministry. Jesus cares about those who serve and those being served. We are called to act the same way.

Reflect on those who need your compassion. How could you meet their need?

Reflections by Gillian Hugo

Dearest Jesus,
Thank you for being compassionate and ever-loving. Help us emulate these traits and be caring, patient, concerned, and considerate of all those in need.
Amen.

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