This week we’ll read about Jesus’ incredible compassion on display in Mark 8. Henri Nouwen once said, “Compassion is hard because it requires the inner disposition to go with others to the place where they are weak, vulnerable, lonely, and broken.” This is not our natural response to suffering. Generally, we try to do away with suffering by fleeing from it or finding a quick cure for it. Jesus knew that compassion means full immersion in the condition of being human. It’s one of the reasons God had to personally come in the form of his son, Jesus.
As we make our way through Mark’s Gospel, chapter 8 sees Jesus feed a large group of 4000 people who were hungry with seven loaves and a few fish. (Earlier he fed a group of 5000 with five loaves of bread and two fish). A few verses later, he heals a blind man. There is much to learn from the miracles themselves, but between them lurks a deeper meaning that Jesus is trying to teach his disciples about life.
Join us in worship in our study in Mark. FaithPoint’s Campus is located at 1051 270th St. W. New Prague. Live Streaming available at 10:00 AM on Facebook or on our website.
Pastor Steve Trewartha
