Jesus always chose the path of sacrifice, substitution, and self-denial if in so doing it would bring life to others. This began, in His human days, with laying aside His crown in heaven and humbling Himself to be housed in human flesh for our salvation.

What determines what you do and when you do it? For Jesus, this was simple. He was driven by the will of His Father and the needs of those around Him.

Deep Grief

Jesus had received news that his relative and forerunner, John the Baptist, had been gruesomely beheaded. His response was immediate.

When Jesus heard about it, He withdrew from there by boat to a remote place to be alone. (Matthew 14:13)

It’s understandable and right that Christ would have sought solitude to be able to speak to His Father and process the death of the one He called the greatest prophet to ever live on the earth. We would think this wise and understandable.

Pressing Crowd

But there was a problem. As usual, the crowd was oblivious to His pain, for they were filled with pain themselves. And they interrupted His solitude.

When the crowds heard this, they followed Him on foot from the towns. When He went ashore, He saw a large crowd, had compassion on them, and healed their sick. (Matthew 14:13)

Jesus could have waved His hand and dispensed the needy crowd. A man has a right to some quiet, you would think.

But not our Lord. Notice the three automatic responses that flowed from His selfless heart:

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