The Disciples return from their assignments and gather to tell Jesus about their experiences. The crowds begin to gather as they recognize them.
Matthew 14:13-14, Mark 6:31-34, Luke 9:10b-11, John 6:1-3
Thoughts about serving others
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This is an important miracle to discuss, but that’s set for tomorrow’s post. Today we’re looking at the prelude to the miracle, a time when the disciples or apostles return from being sent out just a few chapters ago. They came to report to Jesus about their journey, perhaps the things they discovered. They were hungry and probably excited to talk to Jesus, but as we discover, they can no longer hide from the crowds, people know who they are and the amazing things both said and done. So they retreat to a solitary place, to Bethsaida, to find quiet and rest.
Jesus sat down with his disciples. John’s Gospel includes the detail that he sat down with them. This is interesting because I’m sure they were constantly on the move. Taking time to sit down, to stop and talk is significant. It may not last for long, but Jesus is demonstrating how we should teach and learn.
The crowds gathered anyway and Luke reports: He welcomed them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed healing. Jesus had great compassion on the people he encountered.
Jesus showed incredible patience and compassion all the time. As I read through the Gospels I can’t help but come to this conclusion. Jesus’ encounters with the Pharisees or other naysayers is brief compared to the time he spent teaching and discipling those who would listen and follow. When dealing with those who disagree, Jesus cuts to the point and articulately dismisses them, teaching all the while.
These character lessons raise the bar for all of us, whether we find ourselves as lay ministers or vocational pastors, all need to learn from these examples.