Chapters 8 and 9 have dealt mainly with Jesus revealing who he is through his miracles, and as we wrap up this section we see two more miracles, the healing of two blind men (notice that it was done ‘according to their faith’) and the casting out of a demon from a mute person. The people’s response was one of amazement, but the response of the religious leaders was one of false accusations.
I think that false accusation set up the final section, as well as the chapter 10. When Jesus looked on the crowd, He saw them as sheep without a shepherd. The people who should b e shepherding (the religious leaders of the day, e.g. Pharisees), were harassing the people with needless laws and burdens upon them, not taking care of their spiritual needs (see Ezekiel 34 for an Old Testament description of these bad shepherds). Christ saw the people, and their great need, and called for workers to help in the care for them.
Certainly the pastors are the shepherd of the people, yet God calls ALL disciples to share in the ministry and care of the people around them. What ways are you caring for the people around you? What areas could you do better?