In the Old Testament (and in our times) many claimed to be prophets. Jeremiah and others had an infallible way of telling if a prophet were true or false. If he told those in power what they wanted to hear or that everything was just fine, he was lying. Prophets were sent only when there was a crisis that needed to be dealt with. We should beware of those who deny the dangers around us. The problems we face are genuine, and denial leads to disaster.

Jesus was undoubtedly overworked. He often tried to go away to a quiet place to rest and pray but seldom succeeded. He saw the great need of the people – their pain and suffering – and the fact that there was no one to guide them. His compassion for them was so great that he focused all his energy on serving them. Likewise, compassion should be our own guide. Compassionate care for others is always the right path, regardless of inconvenience or difficulty. After all, compassion is another name for God.