April 27, 2016: SOAP #2337: 2Sam 2; 1Chron 11; Ps 142; Matt 14

Scripture: Matthew (NIV) 14:13 When Jesus heard what had happened, 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 had just heard that Herod had beheaded his cousin, John the Baptist. Jesus’ mother had visited her cousin Elizabeth, John’s mother, when they both were pregnant. It seems quite logical that the two families spent time together as the boys were growing. John was probably a good childhood friend of Jesus. It is easy to understand that Jesus would want to get away to a solitary place to grieve. Yet when Jesus saw the people, he did not let his grief overcome his compassion. He healed them!

Application: It is right to grieve, but the Holy Spirit in my life can lift me above the grieving to see the need in others. He can even use ministry to others to bring healing to my grief!

Prayer:   Heavenly Father, you are the God of all comfort! You sent the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, to empower me and lift me above the hurts encountered in this life. Use me for your glory, I pray. Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!