Compassion!

June 13, 2022 Monday Message:

Mark 8:11 NLT: “When the Pharisees heard that Jesus had arrived, they came and started to argue with him. Testing him, they demanded that he show them a miraculous sign from heaven to prove his authority.”

Jesus showed compassion on the crowd of 4,000 men and their families. They were a long way from home and hadn’t brought food. Jesus found seven loaves and a few fish, gave thanks and distributed the food. Everyone ate as much as they wanted, and afterward the disciples gathered seven large baskets of leftovers. Now the Pharisees show up and demand a miraculous sign. Duh! What do you think just happened?

Jesus declined the Pharisee’s request. He’s not in the business of pulling a rabbit out of a hat when antagonists demand a sign. Jesus – follow the ‘God Trend’ here – is known for love, compassion and mercy. That’s the Savior we worship! If a miracle will advance those goals, he’s ‘in.’ But a miracle just for show? You’ve got the wrong guy! The Pharisees only wanted to argue, to confront Jesus, who had been busy shepherding his flock. Jesus had no time for their demands.

Jesus was so offended that he crossed to the other side of the lake, explaining the situation to his disciples as they sailed.

Pastor Norton Lawellin

Jesus in the City Fellowship, 3249 30th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55406