MEDITATION:
Written by Lloyd Wicker, a contemporary pastor and chaplain in the US Navy.
The story of Jesus feeding a crowd of thousands of people weaves together themes from throughout his ministry. These include compassion, power over creation, the ability to sustain life, and involving others in responding to human needs. We also see God’s grace and providence intertwine as Jesus sends the disciples out “to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.” It is important to realize that the people who heard the gospel and who were healed and fed were not saved and sanctified saints; they were not fully committed disciples who were ready to follow Jesus. Yet when Jesus saw their hurts and needs, he responded with love, knowing that many of them would abandon and even turn against him later. Even so, Jesus was moved with compassion, seeing their need. In the same way, he has compassion today when he sees the hurts and needs of anyone created in the image of God. We have daily opportunities to come alongside the people around us. It could mean dropping by the hospital or the nursing home for a visit. Perhaps it involves cooking a meal for someone. Maybe it includes simply listening to another person’s story. When we seek to provide what Jesus offers, we reflect a beautiful picture of God’s compassion and care for others.
PRAYER:
Written by Eugene Bersier (1831-1889), a pastor whose ancestors were Huguenot refugees in Switzerland, led the building of the Etoile Chapel in Paris.
God of love, You see all the suffering, injustice, and misery in this world. Have pity on what You have created. In Your mercy look upon the poor, the oppressed, the destitute, and all who are heavy-laden. Fill our hearts with deep compassion for those who suffer, and hasten the coming of Your kingdom of justice and truth. Amen.
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