The disciples have been with Jesus
as he has traveled throughout the region, across a territory spanning about 40
miles. They have witnessed the crowds pressing in on him everywhere they go.
Twice the disciples have witnessed people forget their own hunger, being so
enamored with Jesus’ teaching. On both occasions, they stood by as Jesus fed
thousands, with next to nothing at his disposal.
They have clearly lacked the
compassion for the crowd that Jesus has. Mark stops short of describing their
disdain for the crowds, but it`s not hard to imagine them saying, What were
they thinking, traveling all this way without food to sustain themselves?
Who did they think would pay for their dinner?
And now the disciples find
themselves in the same boat, both literally and figuratively. They have
traveled back and forth across the lake with Jesus five times already. But on
this journey, they get to the middle of the lake only to find they have but one
loaf of bread to share amongst thirteen people.
Jesus says, “Beware of the yeast of
the religious leaders,” but aware of their own lack of food, the disciples
think he’s talking about bread. He’s not talking about a loaf of bread, but
about the bread that fuels power. Jesus is talking about demands for signs,
proof, and legitimacy. Jesus is saying that healing and wholeness don’t matter
to some people. He’s saying that for people in power it’s not enough to make a
difference for people who suffer. Those in power will always demand permission
slips, certifications, and adherence with the law. For some people, the deeds
are worthless without the credentials.
The disciples understand nothing of
what he’s said or done, not even that he can take their one loaf and feed
everyone in the boat with it, and everyone else in the world besides.
They are thinking about scarcity
and rules. He is demonstrating abundance and grace.
His mercy is about to meet its
match, and their minds are stuck on bread.
Text for the day:
Things to think
about:
People tend to dwell on scarcity
rather than create abundance.
Things to do:
Share something you have with someone
who doesn’t have it. Notice what happens.
God, multiply my
resources.
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