Devotion for 10 April

GOSPEL READING Mark 6:30-34 (English Standard Version)

30 The apostles returned to Jesus and told him all that they had done and taught. 31 And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. 32 And they went away in the boat to a desolate place by themselves. 33 Now many saw them going and recognized them, and they ran there on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. 34 When he went ashore he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. And he began to teach them many things.

Devotion: R&R

Today’s text describes what was happening leading up to the miracle of feeding the 5000. Then as now when we go on a long trip and get back home we want some R&R: rest and recuperation. We also want to share stories of our journey. In today’s text, the twelve want to do just that. No doubt their journey has been strenuous—Jesus sent them out with minimal luggage, so they had to live off what God provided. Also, in those days, I am sure they had to face hostile people in some locations. Jesus recognizes that they need some down time and he wants them to rest and share the tales of their journey in a quiet place. But, as they journey to the quiet place in a boat the people get there just as fast over land. It seems the apostles’ [and Jesus’ of course] work has caused great excitement, and the masses want more time with Jesus. In today’s R&R narrative, do you see a parallel in the upcoming miracle where very little feeds a multitude? Look at it this way: the twelve went out to evangelize with very little, and they came back with a multitude of success stories and great crowds wanting to know more about Jesus. We need to remember that God will provide, we need to have faith and trust that he wants us to succeed. If it looks like you don’t have enough resources to accomplish one of life’s tasks, why not turn to prayer?

We pray: “Lord, thank you for the promise that You will provide. Amen”