Interrupted

SCRIPTURE: Mark 6:32-34 NLT So they left by boat for a quiet place, where they could be alone. But many people recognized them and saw them leaving, and people from many towns ran ahead along the shore and got there ahead of them. Jesus saw the huge crowd as he stepped from the boat, and he had compassion on them because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things.

THOUGHT: The disciples have just finished a ministry tour, having been sent out two-by-two by Jesus with the authority to cast out evil spirits, heal, and preach repentance. While they’ve been away, the original preacher of repentance (and Jesus’ cousin) John, has been beheaded. The highs and lows and constant stress of ministry, being apart, meeting needs of others, and trauma of death has left the group needing time together, away from the crowds. But it is not to be.

Sometimes our best intentions at rest and deep, healing relationship are interrupted. Jesus’ reaction to the interruption is compassion for those who come running to get to the “quiet place” ahead of him. Before the day is out, he feeds the souls and bodies of 5,000 men and their families, involving the disciples in a miracle of multiplication that staggers the best imagination. Then he sends the disciples off in a boat, tells the crowds goodbye, and climbs a mountain to pray.

PRAYER: Son of God, who has compassion on companions and crowds who need rest and hope and healing and teaching – be our shepherd, and pray for us that we may be strengthened.