Tuesday; January 29


         When we look out into modern society, what do we see?  I would like to say that what I see is a world full of potential and possibility, but sometimes the things that catch my attention aren’t all that inspiring.  When I assess the world it is easy for me to spot the loneliness, the addictions, the homeless and the helplessness.  Now, while this can be distressing, I do find a little bit of comfort in the fact that I am in good company.  You see, that is what Jesus saw when He looked at those who surrounded Him.  In describing Jesus’ thoughts on His life and times Matthew observes, “Seeing the people, He felt compassion for them, because they were distressed and dispirited like sheep without a shepherd.” (Matthew 9:36).  While it would be easy to stop here and pretend to commiserate with Jesus, that’s not where Jesus’ statement ends.  As Jesus assessed the human condition, He saw it as a chance to make a difference when He told His disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.  Therefore beseech the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest.” (Matthew 9:37-38).  Jesus’ assessment didn’t end with a condemnation, He offered a challenge.
          When we look out into a lost and dying world we should feel the call to do something about it.  No, we may not be able to change circumstances for everyone, but what we can do is introduce people to the One who has the power to change their lives.  It isn’t enough to condemn them or even feel sorry for them, the thing that gives us hope is the ability to teach them about the only hope they have – The Great Shepherd.
Think About It!

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