Jesus Loves You and Me

Matthew 9:35-36. “Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.”

Much of what people think of when the word “Christian” or “church” is mentioned is negative – and often with good reason. Since all people are sinful, we frequently do not represent our faith well.

So a long time ago I gave up defending Christianity and the church. Instead, I just talk to people about Jesus. I believe that if people will take an honest look at what Jesus said and did, they will be attracted to him. I hope people become followers of Jesus rather than getting tangled up with “being a Christian” or “going to church”. Jesus told his disciples to “follow me”. That’s what we should do – believe what he taught, and follow his example.

As I have been reading through the book of Matthew this month, I have been struck by the heart of Jesus. The verses above capture this. Do you feel harassed and helpless at times? Jesus has compassion on you. He wants to teach you the truth and heal you. He wants to be your shepherd, caring for you and guiding you in the ways you should go. He loves you.

Wherever you are in your faith, I encourage you to think hard about the “real” Jesus – as revealed in scripture rather than someone’s interpretation. Read one of the gospels over the next few days. He is worth following.