Today's Bible reading is the ninth chapter of the Book of Matthew. You can read it here on Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%209&version=NASB

In the beginning of today's text we read the account of Jesus telling the paralytic man that his sins were forgiven. We are told that there were some who were awestruck at His statement and some who would be angry and accuse Jesus of blaspheme. But it was wondrous news to the paralytic man and it is a glorious truth for each of us. Jesus has authority to forgive sins! May we also be awestruck and glory in Christ alone.

In the last portion of the text we are given further insight into the heart of our Savior. As He is "going through all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom", He sees the people. And despite what outward appearance they might have had, He see's that they are "distressed and dispirited like sheep without a shepherd" and feels compassion for them. May God help us to see people through the eyes of our Savior and have His compassion for them.