In week two of the series Overflow we talked about letting our compassion overflow into someone else’s shoes, and with doing that, we can help them through whatever it may be that they’re going through.

“When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. He said to his disciples, “The harvest is great, but the workers are few.” Matthew 9:36-37 (NIV)

“For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God.” Colossians 3:12 (NIV)

Overflow – Week 2

Are you busy? Of course, you are. Between work, school, family, and friends, it seems like there’s always something going on. And that leaves you (and everyone else) with little time to focus on anything other than what’s in front of you. You’re so busy thinking about what you’re doing, then what you have to do next, and then what you have to do after that, it makes it hard to actually see anything or anyone else. It’s true for all of us.

Believe it or not, Jesus actually found Himself in situations like this, too. There were times when He was surrounded by crowds of people asking for His help to heal them or teach them or provide for them. And it definitely would have been easy for Him miss people or opportunities. But look at what the book of Matthew tells us He did instead:

When He saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd (Matthew 9:36 NIV).

Jesus was moved with compassion. When? When he saw the crowds. He took time to notice them. There’s always someone around us in need of a little help or kindness. Maybe it’s a girl in your small group whose parents are going through a divorce. Or a guy you work with who struggles to make friends. Or maybe it’s bigger than that. Maybe it’s the kids in your community who don’t have enough to eat. Or the teenagers across the world who don’t have access to clean water or education. No matter what the need is, part of following Jesus’ example is taking time to notice others. He’s asking us to care enough to do something about someone in need. Who in your life do you know that could use a little compassion? Ask yourself what you can do this week to act on their need.