Daily Devotions

King of Compassion

“When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” Matthew 9:36

What does true kingship look like? For Jesus, it isn’t domination or distance—it’s compassion. When He saw the crowds, He didn’t turn away. He didn’t grow frustrated. He didn’t use them to build His influence. Instead, He felt for them—deeply.

Jesus is the King who weeps, who listens, who heals. His reign is not marked by fear or control but by a deep, personal care for each human heart. He sees the suffering, the loneliness, the weariness—and He moves toward it.

In a world that often hardens us, Jesus calls us to reflect His compassionate heart. Not to be indifferent or judgmental, but to see people as He does: harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd—and to respond with mercy.

The King of Compassion doesn’t reign from a throne of gold, but from a cross of love. And He invites us to let His mercy rule in us, so that our lives reflect His heart to a hurting world.

There’s a story of a busy hospital doctor who was known for his incredible patience. While others rushed from patient to patient, he would take a moment to sit beside each one, look them in the eye, and ask how they were—really. One of the nurses asked him how he had time for that. He replied, “They don’t just need medicine. They need someone who sees them.”

This is what Jesus did. He didn’t just see the crowd—He saw each person. And He had compassion.

That’s what makes Him our King. His power doesn’t push people away—it draws them in. He rules not with a sword, but with care.

Jesus, King of Compassion, let me see people as you see them. Help me to move toward the broken, the tired, and the lost—not with judgment, but with mercy. Rule in my heart with your gentle strength, and help me to reflect your compassion in all I do. Amen.