Clay in the Hands

One my readings today came from the Gospel of Matthew.  It is a story of Jesus healing a man who could not speak.  While this is a moving story of Jesus’ compassion and healing power, what caught my attention even more was what was relayed after the telling of the healing account.

Here is what Matthew says in chapter 9 verses 35 and 36:

Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness.  When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.

Jesus was among the people and when he saw the crowds he realized they were lost – like sheep wandering around aimlessly without a shepherd.  He had compassion on them and caused his disciples to take notice of just how much work there was to do to show God’s love and hope to all the people.

I would say that the need for God’s hope and love is just as real today.  The problem is, we tend to insulate ourselves from it.  We associate where we are comfortable.  We don’t venture too far off the safe path.  We don’t concern ourselves with the needs of others – not because we are bad people – but because we just don’t see it – or we choose not to see it.

I believe God has called us as followers in The Way to be salt and light to a tasteless and dark world.  But what good is a light if it is not carried into the darkness?

I challenge you today to venture out just a bit into the darkness.  Rub elbows just a little with those who don’t normally fit into your crowd.  And see what God might do – maybe not in the lives of those you meet but rather in your own heart.

Be a blessing today.