“When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So, he began teaching them many things.” (Mark 6:34)

Jesus did much more teaching than performing miracles. His compassion was for a total life, not only one aspect of it. His teachings were more valuable than anything He could have done for the people. They brought a new perspective to their lives. They would never be the same after listening to Him. His Words would echo down through the ages with instruction and wisdom to live in this world and to live giving glory to God. Those Words would primarily reveal a God of love who was reaching out to His lost children and drawing them to Himself. The culmination of all Jesus’ Word would be found at the Cross.

We often forget that what we learn is who we are. Jesus knew that we must learn of Him if we were to have a life that was abundant and meaningful. Today we must continue to look to His Word for guidance and wisdom in life. In learning from Him we will discover his greatest compassion. His Word is truth and in that truth we find freedom from sin, death and the devil. In other words, a life without fear but peace. A life that we can rejoice in and say, “I am glad to be alive!” Let us remember that every day is a gift and His Word makes it rich.

Heavenly Father, You didn’t send Your Son to die for us and leave us to struggle alone until we enter with You into Your Eternal Kingdom. You have given also, through Your Son, His Word to live by. It is instruction and wisdom. Help us receive it so that we can know Your love more perfectly and live it in this world. In Jesus’ name. Amen.