"But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith he unto his disciples, 'The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest'" (Matthew 9:36-38). 

Jesus was moved with compassion when he saw these people in their spiritual condition as sheep scattered without a shepherd. Christ was not the only one moved when he saw the lost in their dying condition. God was moved as well. When God saw us dead in our trespasses and sin, he demonstrated his great love and mercy toward us by sending a redeemer, the Lord Jesus Christ. Christ paid the maximum price for our good. He died so that we could live.

So what about us? How much compassion and love do we have for those who are dying and on their way to a Christ-less eternity? How much mercy do we have for them? Are we quick to judge them for their sins and have no heart to share the gospel with them? If Christ was merciful and loving enough to forgive our sins and let us hear the gospel and be saved, why can't we be Christ-like toward them? Ephesians 2:1-3 and Titus 3:3 tells us that we were vile and wicked just like everybody else is. And yet, God had compassion on us to save us. I think that it is only right that we give of what we have received, and that is the plan of salvation. As we have freely received, should we not freely give? 

What about missionaries? How much compassion do we have for them? Many missionaries leave home never to return permanently, and go overseas where many of us wouldn't even dream of going and sometimes we shiver in our shoes full of fear just at the thought of going over there. How much compassion do we have for our missionaries? God's harvest is plenteous and vast. It is our duty as Christian to spread the gospel here and overseas. Missionaries are doing a task that many of us wouldn't dare do. Do we have compassion and appreciation for their service to God? Do we love them and encourage them? How well do we pray for them and support them financially? 

As sinners saved by God's love and grace, let us have compassion on the lost and go forth and pray for them, share the gospel with them, and love them as Christ loved us. Let us also pray for our missionaries who are many times putting their lives in harm's way so that others can hear the gospel and have eternal life.

If you feel it would be an encouragement or a blessing to someone, you have the Stilwell's permission to forward this article in its entirety. They just ask that you include this note at the bottom of the article with their name and e-mail address (Jeff and Kim Stilwell, jkstilwell@juno.com) in case someone wishes to contact them. Thank you.

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