In today’s reading we continue to see patterns that are developing in Mark’s gospel. The Pharisees are now pushing Jesus for a miraculous sign. It’s almost like they want him to perform a magic trick on the spot, hoping that they’ll catch him off guard and he won’t have his props ready to sneak up his sleeve.
How did Jesus respond? Our text says he “sighed deeply in his spirit.” This may not have been audible, I don’t know. I’m guessing it was more an inward sort of frustration that Jesus didn’t let on to those watching the scene. Have you ever encountered a situation where you wanted to scream on the outside but chose the more refined silent treatment instead? I think we have all had this happen to us on occasion. It may have even happened subconsciously.
In any event, after Jesus questioned why they needed such a thing or had much such a request, he got back in the boat and left. He was asking the question but never intended to wait for or expect a response. It could well have been an “under the breath” sort of statement.
The scene then shifts to the disciples and what do we see – they are fixated on the bread again. So when Jesus warned them of the yeast of the Pharisees, their minds went immediately to the bread they had forgotten. I suppose there was some guilt in there, and possible hunger. But they didn’t get that Jesus was talking about “real” bread, or yeast, here, was he? Jesus was talking about the words of the Pharisees, or their thoughts and actions toward Jesus. Jesus could clearly see through them, and he was warning the disciples to do the same.
The disciples’ memory seemed to be in tact as they could remember the number of leftover baskets they picked up in two of our recent Bible accounts. But we’ve also seen how they are just a little “slow” on picking up the message they should be getting loud and clear. Jesus is the real deal and is worthy of our praise.
Do we struggle with having more than a blind faith? Do we need to see a miracle like the Pharisees? Or, do we need to be reminded again and again of the greatness of Jesus and how much he provides for us? Think about it. What if Jesus were to show up at your door today. How would you respond? Would you drop every plan you have to spend time with him?
Let’s pray. Lord, forgive me when I get busy and distracted. I definitely do not want to be like a Pharisee that needs a sign to believe. I know without a doubt that you are there, that you love me and others,and that you stand on the ready to rescue me when I fall. Forgive me when I fall short of where you want me to be. I long to help others and draw people back to you. I’ve not encountered many non-believers, and I thank you for the opportunities you have placed before me. I pray that you will use my grace and integrity to draw attention to you. It is all from you, after all. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
