Matthew 9:36-“When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.”
A prayer of mine long ago was to ask Jesus to give me his heart for people. Before I rededicated my life to Jesus in July 1989, I did not have a heart for others. As I read through the gospels and how Jesus treated people when he was on earth, it spoke to me so much that I asked him to give me his heart for others.
How he answered that prayer was to take me through the school of interacting with those who have suffered in life. It began in October 1989 when I came home one evening and felt his presence so much that I fell to the floor. He gave me images in my mind of hurting people and impressed upon me that wherever I go, he would connect me with someone who is suffering.
That ramped up a great deal as I began to teach English Second Language and meet refugees. Hearing their stories of suffering and helping them with their new lives in America while sharing Jesus with them changed me. Their stories are ones of escaping war and danger, oppression, and suffering.
That is how the school of Jesus works. He calls us, places us in situations to teach us, and changes us. As Ephesians 2:10 says:
For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
The process of being created in Christ Jesus for good works is not some poof instantly equipped thing. It is a life of being discipled by Jesus through the school of Jesus in real life experiences that change us. It is not easy. It can be heartbreaking at times. But it is so worthwhile.
Thank you for reading. God Bless.
Jesusluvsall's Blog 
It’s wonderful how God puts us right where we need to be, to have the most impact for His kingdom.
It is amazing to watch it unfold
Powerful testament! Matt, your personal walk with Jesus every day encourages others to take up their cross and follow. His grace and peace shines through you.
Thank you Richard. It is a daily choice for us. Are you ready for college football?
You are blessed like, Tabitha/Dorcas…your are Jesus’ disciple with a heart to be his witness and to clothe others with the apparel of language, as it is needed!
May God continue to bless you my Brother💕
Language is so much fun to teach and to learn. God Bless 🙂
The work that Jesus called us to do is indeed a lifelong experience. I am so glad that you are able to walk in the purpose that God has for you. Blessings 🙌
Thank you little sister. When we find what Jesus is calling us to it makes a bug difference
Amen.
Great piece.
Some of the experiences that Christ took us through requires to be a living sacrifice without that it will be difficult.
Thank you for this.
It blessed me!
Thank you. The experiences can be difficult but they are worthwhile
Did you ever feel scared that God would call you to do things that were difficult for you or… hmm.. not sure how to put it into words. I’m kind of at an in between place. Working on getting my license. Thinking about Andrew’s aging parents and there needs. Thinking about how those changes will affect our lives and finances and seeing the need for employment. WANTING to get out into the world as our former home based business kept us tied to home… but not really sure where I fit in. Having family wanting to help, but sometimes feeling pushed or even used by them even if their intentions are good. And not having a clue where God wants me or how much work it’s going to take to get there. Maybe my ambitious are more than he wants out of me… or maybe the road ahead is going to be a continuation of my uphill challenges. But sometimes I become fearful… and I don’t have a clue where God is leading.
If God calls you sweet daughter. he will equip you and empower you.
Remember-step by step
Thank you. ❤
❤️❤️❤️
Yes such a learning process. I know in the past year (through seeking a counselor) as I’ve revisited childhood trauma memories I’m learning about emotions I never knew before. It’s difficult for myself to navigate through but also teaching me compassion for others.
Great post Matt!
I understand how you feel little sister. I am proud if you for seeking therapy
proud of you not if you
Carry on with the noble work.
Thank you sweet daughter. How are you?
I had faith in Jesus, although I am not Christian but I felt his words and there comes his shower of love.
As he says ” love thy neighbour” , I tried to love but it was not long lasting.
Soon , I started hating more than loving.
I think there is more behind your comment than can be properly addressed by my response. I would, however, encourage you to seek help.
Being a Christian means a life long journey of ups and downs. If we look at our circumstances, the beginnings of interest in Jesus can be choked out by what is happening around us in our lives. Becoming a Christian does not mean those issues are magically gone from our lives, but it means Jesus will partner with us in our healing journey.
and please keep in mind- the arms of Jesus are always open to you