RSPCA

Jesus went around visiting all the towns and villages. He taught in the synagogues, preached the Good News about the Kingdom, and healed people with every kind of disease and sickness. As he saw the crowds, his heart was filled with pity for them, because they were worried and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. (verses 35,36)

Read Matthew 9:35-10:8

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) is an old organisation. However, it is still very relevant. Quite often we see TV footage depicting animals in pitiful states of neglect, usually at the hands of their owners. Someone has to take pity on them and help them or they die from starvation or disease. Thankfully, there are lots of compassionate people who are happy to support such efforts.

Even more compelling are the scenes we see sometimes of people subjected to famine, flood or some other natural disaster. Our hearts go out to them and we support the efforts to help them.

That’s how Jesus saw the people of his day. Some of them suffered from disease, others from economic hardship, but, more to the point, they lived aimless lives, driven by the winds of circumstance. Jesus felt sorry for them. He provided for their physical needs and, more importantly, for their spiritual ones as well.

He wants to do the same for all of us today. He is our RSPCA: the Remarkable Saviour who Provides Care for All!

Dear Jesus, look with compassion on all who are living distressed and directionless lives. Please come to me with hope and healing. Amen.

by Richard Hauser, in ‘New Strength for each Day’ (LCA, Openbook, 1998)

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