New Beginnings - Pt. 4

 

And Jesus went throughout all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore spray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” (Matthew 9:35-38 ESV).

 

As the new year ramps up and our schedules return to “normal” most of our lives begin to fill with things to do, places to go, and people to meet. Even for Mary and I who are nearly retired, the schedule of our lives can often lead to frustration and anxiety. I must admit that I never expected to need my Day Timer to keep track of the number of doctor’s appointments, but there we are. It has been a bit worse lately simply because of the difficulty of uncovering a diagnosis for treatment in my current health issue. Earlier today (Thursday) I had a consult with the pulmonologist to go over the results of the tests that were performed last week. I was amused when he told me that nothing was wrong with my lungs. Hearing the term “normal” when you can’t breathe is not comforting. Well, we visited a bit more and he admitted that he simply had no idea why I was unable to breathe and suggested that I try another “ologist.”

 

Of course, there are countless stories like mine in our world. The point is that the distraction of all these things can overwhelm us. We were created with a clear purpose in life: to care for the world and for one another. But then sin came in and distorted our sense of purpose. Life comes at us quickly, and we often respond by just trying to keep up. Whether it’s the “rat race” at work, extracurricular activities with our kids, or other commitments, there are always more distractions and demands on our time. The harassment of all this is not new to our generation. Jesus walked among people who were overburdened with the stresses of life; they needed comfort, help, and rest. And “he had compassion on them, because they were …like sheep without a shepherd” (v. 36).

 

Jesus pays attention to people’s needs. And like a good shepherd, he tends, provides, guides, heals, and shares his love with all. He also points his followers to God’s work in restoring purpose and healing to our lives. That truth is the foundation of hope in what feels hopeless. Jesus is the ultimate answer to all our challenges. Trust Him!