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“And Jesus went throughout all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction.  When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” Matthew 9:35-36

Glancing out the window, I watched them gather.  Yes, the group of two to three meeting up in their usual place.  Waiting patiently.  Sitting as if they had nowhere else to go.  And to be totally honest, this was the only place they wanted to be.  Here in this same spot, every day was where they were fed. Yes, you know it girls, the Martins feed the cats who continuously frequent our backyard.  We have no pets; I’m allergic to everything.  Yet these strays gather at the edge of our yard because they know they won’t leave empty.

Wanderers lost and roaming – we’ve probably all met a few of those who were searching for a place to gather.  Isn’t that what we all long for – a place to belong, to come together and be fed.  Spiritual, emotional and mental hunger can send us seeking relief, desperately waiting for empty to fade.  Sad reality is the gatherers (harvest) is plentiful, but the feeders (laborers) are few.  Too many things on our plate to notice those around us who are starving for God’s truth.  Too consumed with self to give a little of us to someone else.  Best excuse ever – we’re empty and have nothing to offer despite all the pretenses we are full.

Love the compassion of our sweet Jesus who never let anyone miss His gaze.  Traveling, teaching, healing and surrounded by crowds.  Jesus saw the gatherers, wanderers and strays.  Like sheep without a shepherd, He met their needs without excuse or neglect.  Those who came hungry left fed.

Wonder who we are feeding?  Are we even aware of the strays who wander into our path?  Deeper question yet is would they gather waiting patiently knowing they wouldn’t leave empty?  Excuses will always rob us of the great joy found in reflecting Jesus to our world.  Failing to fill our souls with His truth will leave us barren and unable to birth hope within someone else.  But if we intentionally keep our gaze on Jesus then He will open our eyes  and fill us to overflowing so we can help those who are desiring to be fed.

“Father, help us to not miss divine opportunities orchestrated by You for us to be a light of hope in a world hungry for Your love.  Fill us with Your truth and compassion so we can feed Your sheep.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life