September 30, 2022 -- Ecclesiastes 4:1 -- Compassion and the Captain of Salvation

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

Again I saw all the oppressions that are done under the sun. And behold, the tears of the oppressed, and they had no one to comfort them! On the side of their oppressors there was power, and there was no one to comfort them.
Ecclesiastes 4:1 ESV

When He [Jesus] saw the crowds, He had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.
Matthew 9:36 ESV

Jesus is fully human. One emotion He frequently expressed is compassion. As you read the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) make a note of how often it is recorded that Jesus has compassion on the people or was moved to pity and such expressions. It will really emphasis for you His humanity.

Today's first reading is from Ecclesiastes. It states what many of us see in the world around us: so many people are without any comfort. It seems that countless numbers of people are bobbing like corks in the ocean bobbing up and down under oppression and helplessness. This is the work of darkness and sin. The second reading, from Matthew, shows the great hope offered in Jesus Christ.

Jesus is the High Prist—Who offered Himself as the sacrifice for sin. He is the perfect priest; in His humanity He continually has compassion on His people. He will never have compassion fatigue. He brings the wrongs and the wretchedness of the world to the attention of the Father.

Jesus is the King. He is willing to help and able to help. This is a role He combines with His work as the Praying High Priest. He continually prays for and works on behalf of all those who are helpless and comfortless. His Kingdom is secure. His throne endures forever. His people are those who are truly happy for they know His deliverance.

Jesus is the Prophet. He calls out to the world. Soften your hearts. Break down the stubborn resistance you have against helping others. Let your compassion flow freely and help those who are weary and wounded and weak. Do this, from the storehouse of salvation given to you by the Father, Who has given you the power to do such things by the presence of His Spirit within you.

If you wonder "why isn't Jesus doing anything?" He has. He Is. And now He sends you, as His representatives--where you see injustice, speak and act. Where there are hurting people, helpless and hopeless--bring the Gospel. Live prophetically, calling out for the attention of all those around you--Jesus is the Great Prophet, Prist and King. Look to Him.

Thank You, Father in heaven, for Jesus Christ--the Son of God and Son of Man. Thank You for His humanity and great compassion. Thank You, that in Christ Jesus we see the radiance of Your glory and Your perfect compassion. Help us, Father, by Your Spirit, to be ambassadors of Jesus Christ--following Him Who is the Captain of Salvation. Amen.

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