Saturday, August 1, 2009

Compassion for Travelers



“I have compassion on the crowd, because they have been with me now three days and have nothing to eat. And if I send them away hungry to their homes, they will faint on the way. And some of them have come from far away.” Mark 8:2-3

This moving thing has a remarkable impact on the human body and the human spirit. Even when people are moving and relocating for all the right reasons, the process can be overwhelming. When there is nothing completely familiar and routines are established, then accidents and challenges can seem overwhelming and unbearable. Some days no matter how much we do there always seems more to do and there are visible reminders of all that needs to be done. This same feelings can happen to folks who are traveling, even when they have all the luxuries and comforts. Being away from a familiar routine and not knowing where to go to eat can upset even the most calm and savvy person. Being far from home and without direction can be devastating. A change in routine and location can make all of undone.

Jesus looked into the faces of the people and had compassion. A little bit of bread and fish became enough for a small city of folks. Jesus looks us in the eyes in the midst of our travels and changes and has compassion. So let's sit down on the grass, offer what we have and expect miracles enough for the crowd we have. May we all take our feeble gifts and offer them to God, today, humble and lost as we are. For God looks on us every day with compassion and God's desire is for miracles and abundance. May this bright Saturday be a day full of offering and being fed.

No comments: