What Jesus Did! 'Careful Compassion' — Matthew 12:15-16

Sunday, June 6, 2021

But Jesus knew [that the Pharisees were plotting to kill him]. So he left that area, and many people followed him. He healed all the sick among them, but he warned them not to reveal who he was.
— Matthew 12:15-16 NLT

Key Thought

With the growing criticism of Jesus and hostility toward him by the religious elite, Jesus begins to withdraw more and spend more time revealing himself and his identity only to the disciples. He doesn't want to be perceived as merely a "miracle maker" by the crowds, but his compassion repeatedly leads him to minister to them and their needs. Even under intense scrutiny, opposition, personal pain, and unfair criticism, Jesus shows compassion to those who are broken. Jesus' actions remind us that nothing, including adverse circumstances, is ever an excuse to ignore or abuse those around us, especially those who are in need of grace. We are put here to do God's work and be his instruments of grace. That purpose is unchanged by circumstance. By faith, we trust our consistent devotion to that purpose will not only please God, but also make a significant impact on others.

Today's Prayer

Holy and compassionate Father, fill me with your love that I may show your grace to those around me. Even when I am being treated unfairly, please help me take my eyes off my problems and focus them on others who are in need of compassionate care. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Luke 6:31-36
  • 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
  • Colossians 3:12-14

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Illustration

Illustration of Matthew 12:15-16 NLT — But Jesus knew [that the Pharisees were plotting to kill him]. So he left that area, and many people followed him. He healed all the sick among them, but he warned them not to reveal who he was.

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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