Matthew 9:18-38  Matthew records a series of miraculous healings... a woman who hemorrhaged for 12 years; a child who had died; two blind men; and a demon-possessed man unable to speak.  Matthew tells us in verse 36 that "..seeing the multitudes, He felt compassion for them because they were distressed and downcast like sheep without a shepherd." 

What great compassion our Savior has for us.  He sees our distress.  He knows our greatest needs.  The synagogue official had just watched his daughter die.. but he came to find Jesus.. with faith that trusted Him to overcome death.   The suffering woman had given everything she could to find healing for her condition.. but she came in faith.. to touch the hem of His cloak.. and found healing. 

The two blind men cried out to Him and followed Him into the house. When Jesus asked, "Do you believe that I am able to do this?".. Their answer was "Yes Lord". .  Jesus touched their eyes and they received their sight.. "according to (their) faith".  The dumb, demon-possessed man was brought to Jesus.. by someone who had faith that Jesus would help.. and He did. 

Only the Pharisees refused to see the Truth. They hardened their hearts. They accused the Son of God of having demonic power.  They were the ones who were in need of healing.. the ones who were really blind.. the ones who were in need of new life. 

Jesus told His disciples to "Beseech the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest."  There was such great need.. such loss.. such distress.. in the world.. in those days.. and in these days.. now.  We need to carry on the prayers of the disciples.. 

Father in heaven.. will You once again send out workers into Your harvest.. to bring hope for the hurting.. help for the weak.. and life to those who are dead in their sins.  Raise up Your church. Empower your people. Send forth shepherds to have compassion on those who have no other hope.. let Your Name be lifted up and the gospel of Jesus Christ be shouted from the hilltops.. we pray this in His holy Name. amen.