If I send them to their homes hungry, they will collapse on the way, because some of them have come from far away.”
This verse continues to show Christ’s foreseeing care. He not only sees the present need, but also the consequence that could arise if the people set out on the road in the same condition. This testifies that the Lord is not only the God of the present in a person’s life, but also the guardian of his future steps. He knows the hardship of the road, the burden of the distance, and the weakness of the body. The phrase “They have come from far away” shows their effort and devotion, which, as we see, the Lord does not overlook. For the disciples this is also a lesson that ministry toward people is not limited only to teaching, but, as we will see next, it also includes compassion and practical help.