Tuesday of week 14 in Ordinary Time
Saint Augustine Zhao Rong and his Companions, Martyrs
Gospel Matthew 9:32-37
“And when he saw the crowds he felt sorry for them because they were harassed and dejected, like sheep without a shepherd”. presents a vivid image of Jesus’ compassion for the multitudes. In this passage, Jesus sees the crowds and is deeply moved by their plight. They are described as “harassed and dejected”, evoking a sense of profound suffering and aimlessness. This imagery, “like sheep without a shepherd”, highlights their vulnerability and need for guidance. Here we can see Jesus’ true compassion which goes beyond superficial to the real engagement. Jesus’ compassion translates into a call for laborers to tend to the harvest, indicating the need for leaders who can provide the necessary guidance and support. This can be interpreted as a call to each of us to step into roles where we can help others find their way, whether through mentorship, community service, or simply being a source of support and kindness. Let’s reflect: Am I stepping up to the situation where others are left like sheep without shepherd?