HCC Weekly - March 30th, 2026

March 30th, 2026

Pastor Ken

Matthew 9:36 (NIV)

When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.

Sometimes the Bible uses graphic terminology to communicate itself. For example, consider the word “compassion” in Matthew 9:36. It is the Greek word “splagchnizomai” (pronounced “splauk- nee-zo-my”). It is exclusive to the Gospels and it is always used in union with the movements of Christ. But the biggest surprise stemming from this word is its original connotation because it

means…get ready for this…bowels! Yes, you read it right; it is a term meant to be used in conjunction with bowels or bowel movements!

What could possibly be the point? Well, you know when your body tells you it’s time to use the bathroom? It creates in you a sense of urgency, a sensation which demands your full and immediate attention and refuses to be ignored. That’s precisely the same idea behind the word “compassion”. When Christ saw the crowds, He was moved by a gut-wrenching urgency over their welfare. It demanded His full attention, it refused to be ignored, and it caused Him to forgo His own agenda in favor of their needs.

And so, the Gospel employs a graphic, intense, and unnerving word to communicate the compassion of Christ for you and me. His love for us is so great and so powerful that He is moved by a sense of urgency over our needs. An exigence which demands His full and immediate attention and refuses to be ignored. It causes me to think of the lyrics to the Cory Asbury song, “Reckless Love”.

Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God.

Oh, it chases me down, fights til found, leaves the ninety-nine.

I couldn't earn it, and I don't deserve it, still, You give Yourself away. Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God.

There's no shadow You won't light up. Mountain You won't climb up. Coming after me.

There's no wall You won't kick down. Lie You won't tear down. Coming after me.

Dear friend, take comfort in knowing that Christ observes your needs through the same lens of intensity and urgency as you see them. Moreover take heart in the knowledge that He is so moved with love and compassion for you that your needs are always His first priority. Take time today to praise Him and thank Him for his never-ending, always-intensive care and concern over you.

And have a great Monday.