This sermon focuses on the Gospel of Matthew, Chapter Nine, verse 36, and the compelling profile there of Jesus’s ministry as the Good Shepherd who gave His life for the sheep.  His compassion is the hub around which this text and sermon pivots and pulsates.  Jesus models compassion with His searching awareness, His sincere affection and His sobering assessment.  These commitments propel the sacrificial accommodation that is the powerful prelude to Resurrection Sunday.  Jesus gave His life on the Cross for those who are helpless, harassed and hopeless.  He lives now not only as the Compassionate Shepherd but also as the Conquering Sovereign.