In his book Simply Jesus, theologian N. T. Wright writes, “When God does big things, the little people get drawn in too.” One of my favorite examples of this is found in the book of Matthew.
Early in his gospel account, Matthew summarized the spectacular things that had been happening wherever Jesus went: “Jesus traveled throughout the region of Galilee, teaching in the synagogues and announcing the Good News about the Kingdom. And he healed every kind of disease and illness” (Matthew 4:23).
Later, Matthew repeated this summary, with nearly identical wording (Matthew 9:35). This time, however, he added the words, “When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd” (Matthew 9:36).
Jesus was a busy man with a big agenda, spreading the good news about the kingdom. Through Him, God’s kingdom was arriving on earth as it was in heaven. That which was broken was starting to be fixed, as represented by all the physical healings. Big things were happening, and yet Jesus never lost sight of “little people.”
We live in a world that is preoccupied with many agendas, with many people too busy to notice the distress of the “little people” or too desensitized to care. Yet, the New Testament shows us that Jesus didn’t look away. He saw inner suffering and the deepest needs of all people.
The fact that Jesus saw and had compassion gives me hope when I feel distressed and helpless. He sees what no one else may see. And as Matthew goes on to record, Jesus beckons and says, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Little people included.
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Joshua 10:1-15
More:
Read Matthew 9:18-34 and note how Jesus impartially ministered to people of different social classes.
Next:
What burden or need can you bring to Jesus today? Who are the “little people” in your life who could use some loving encouragement?
Gary Shultz on March 4, 2015 at 6:19 am
Hobbits were always in God’s plan. We little people make up the large part of what will be God’s Kingdom. I’m sure there will be some large names in glory because God had purpose for them. Most; however will be the rag tag team of peoples from all nationalities all walks of life and even the strange thing, from all ages of known history. I’m good to go with being a Hobbit of this earth, but some day I will be called a son. How does it get any better than that? Thanks for this space so I could say that.
Jeff Olson on March 4, 2015 at 9:39 am
Your welcome, “Mr. Frodo”
tgustafs on March 4, 2015 at 8:12 am
I love Gary’s perspective! For every Paul or Nicodemus, there were dozens of ordinary people whom no one knew about until He chose them. Nice reminder today, Jeff. I realize that I am one of those who is too often too “busy” to do what God has put right in front of me — a fellow human being who could use a little help.
Jeff Olson on March 4, 2015 at 9:41 am
Me too…”Busy” is too often my middle name…it’s good to be reminded
Tom Felten on March 4, 2015 at 9:32 am
What an example we have in a Savior who welcomed children, reached out to social outcasts, and compassionately dealt with those condemned for their sins! May we reflect His heart by the power of the Holy Spirit today.
Winn Collier on March 4, 2015 at 4:49 pm
small people. small things. small seeds. I love the way the kingdom works.
Jeff Olson on March 4, 2015 at 5:30 pm
indeed Winn…and through the power of the resurrection all those “little” things add up when Jesus returns and God’s kingdom comes in its fulness.
Mike Wittmer on March 4, 2015 at 8:17 pm
The movie “The Drop Box” opens this week, which I’ve heard is particularly poignant about helping the least of these.
Jeff Olson on March 5, 2015 at 8:20 am
Thanks for mentioned “The Drop Box”…watched the “The Drop Box” trailer on Youtube…looks fantastic!!