Pastor Leon’s SOAP: Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer

November 23: Matt 14-16

Scripture: Matthew (NIV) 14:13 When Jesus heard what had happened [that his cousin and forerunner John the Baptist had been killed by Herod], he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place. Hearing of this, the crowds followed him on foot from the towns. 14 When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick.

Observation: Jesus did not let the sad and depressing news about his cousin stop the flow of his ministry to the large crowd that followed him. He did not consider them an interruption in his grieving. He did not complain about how he needed time alone. He saw them with compassion; they were the reason He was He was there. Though he was grieving, he saw them and treated them with compassion. At funerals I have often seen mothers whose compassion caused them to set aside personal feelings of grief to take care of their child. Here we see that Jesus did the same.

Application: Tiredness, weariness, grief, sickness, pain, frustration, etc., can cause me to become selfish, thinking only of myself. These things seem to cry out, “I need help! Take care of me!” Spending time in the presence of Jesus and allowing the Holy Spirit to work in my life fills me with compassion. Compassion for others can overcome my selfishness and give me an opportunity for fruitful ministry.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, what compassion I see in your Son, Jesus. He is amazing! I want you to see His character being developed in me. Amen

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!