Compassion of Jesus

The compassion of Jesus is a central theme in the New Testament, reflecting His divine nature and His mission to bring salvation and healing to humanity. The Gospels frequently depict Jesus as being moved by compassion, which often leads to miraculous acts of healing and provision. In Matthew 9:36 , it is written, "When He saw the crowds, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." This passage highlights Jesus' deep empathy for the spiritual and physical needs of the people.

Jesus' compassion is not limited to physical healing but extends to spiritual restoration. In Mark 1:40-41 , a leper approaches Jesus, imploring Him for healing. "Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out His hand and touched the man. 'I am willing,' He said, 'Be clean!'" This act of touching a leper, who was considered unclean, demonstrates Jesus' willingness to break social and religious barriers to show love and mercy.

The feeding of the five thousand, as recorded in Matthew 14:14-21 , is another example of Jesus' compassion. "When He stepped ashore and saw a large crowd, He had compassion on them and healed their sick." Despite His own need for rest, Jesus prioritizes the needs of the people, providing both spiritual teaching and physical sustenance.

Call of Jesus

The call of Jesus is an invitation to follow Him and become His disciples. This call is characterized by a radical commitment to leave behind one's former life and embrace a new identity in Christ. In Matthew 4:19 , Jesus calls Simon Peter and Andrew, saying, "Come, follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." This call to discipleship involves a transformation of purpose, from fishing for fish to fishing for souls.

Jesus' call is inclusive, extending to all people regardless of their social status or past sins. In Matthew 11:28-30 , Jesus invites those who are weary and burdened, saying, "Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." This invitation emphasizes the accessibility of Jesus' call and the promise of rest and peace for those who respond.

The call of Jesus also involves a call to service and mission. In the Great Commission, recorded in Matthew 28:19-20 , Jesus instructs His disciples, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you." This command underscores the global scope of Jesus' call and the responsibility of His followers to spread the Gospel.

In summary, Jesus' compassion and call are intertwined aspects of His ministry, demonstrating His love for humanity and His desire for all to enter into a transformative relationship with Him. His compassion leads to acts of mercy and healing, while His call invites individuals to a life of discipleship and mission.