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But Jesus called his disciples around him and said, “I am feeling compassion1 over the crowd because it is already three days2 since they approached me and they have had nothing to eat. I do not want to dismiss them fasting. They may give out on the road.”3
| 1 | Compassion: Or, PME: my heart goes out. This crowd has just experienced unnumbered miracles and the joyous conversation with tears of happiness must be awesome. We can only imagine their emotions. |
| 2 | Three days: Imagine such a crowd, so filled with energy and elation they have lost the count of time and at least one night has passed. The strength and example of the Nazarene is something to admire. |
| 3 | They may give out on the road: Or, RHM: lest by any means they faint; PME: collapse on the way; BAS: they will have no strength for the journey. |
Dear Friends of the Nazarene,
We choose Matthew 15:32 as the theme verse of chapter fifteen – Christ’s Compassion. The Jewish religious hierarchy accuses Christ’s disciples of breaking old traditions. [1-20] Jesus accuses the Jewish leadership of invalidating God’s Word by their traditions. He quotes Isaiah 29:13 and states that “worship is worthless.” He calls them “blind guides” and lists those things that could defile a worshipper of God.
In the city of Tyre Jesus shows compassion on a Canaanite woman. [21-28] He explains he was only sent to the “lost sheep of the house of Israel,” but at her persistent faith he cures her daughter. The Master cures more people near the Sea of Galilee. [29-31] He feels compassion for the crowd and again miraculous feeds 4,000. [32-39]
Abba our Father bless those who believe.
[27 October 2002]
