Jesus had just got back from a trip to the Mediterranean coast where He taught the disciples a lesson in cross-cultural evangelism (Matthew 15:21-28). Back in Galilee, the crowds gathered again. This time He led the disciples up into the hills overlooking the lake; and soon four thousand families gathered around Him. They included many people who could not help themselves, their health was broken and nobody could heal them.
 
Jesus was seated: it was the characteristic posture of a teacher of the Word. Rabbis sat to teach. But, Jesus did not only teach, He took action. What He did was appropriate for each individual and the effect transformed their lives. All those watching on were amazed. They were used to religious leaders telling other people what they should do, but never taking direct action to help them. No wonder the crowds stayed for three days without a meal.
 
The compassion of Jesus was very practical. It came from His total understanding of people; their bodies, minds and spirits. They worshipped Him by trekking for miles into the hills and entrusted their loved ones to His care. He knew how much their bodies could take in the heat and without food, so He did not want to tell the crowd to go away. They needed food - but could not provide that for themselves, any more than healing for the blind and crippled people.
 
The loving compassion of Jesus has not ceased. He has the power to help people who have no power to help themselves or their families. What He will do and how He will do it is His secret, but if you come to Him in your weakness and helplessness, He will show His compassion in practical ways as well as reassuring your heart that He is in command of every situation. Many people have nobody to help them ... Jesus can. Dare to ask for His help and be ready to receive His compassion in whatever way He will send it.