Jesus covers a lot of ground in this reading, not necessarily in a “geographic” sense. We should marvel at feeding the multitudes again or rejoice with the blind man who can now see. We could even question what Jesus meant when he rebuked the request for a miraculous sign. But the recurrent theme of the disciples’ hard-headedness cannot be denied.
We might even similarly see ourselves. How often do we find ourselves scratching our heads when it comes to understanding the grace of God or what the kingdom of God means for us. Why do you think the disciples were so oblivious?
Perhaps they were still in awe of what was happening to them. After all, it wasn’t that long ago when these men were fishermen or doing some other trade, living a familiar life. Now they were hanging with the Son of God, their long-awaited Messiah. The prophecies learned as a child were coming to pass before their eyes. It was a lot to take in.
Even for us, we don’t understand everything despite the fact we have the entire Bible at our disposal. There are so many hidden messages for us to discover in God’s word. God’s plan for that is brilliant, giving us only the understanding we can handle through the Holy Spirit. We call that discernment, and I find myself praying for more all the time.
Jesus was frustrated with his disciples. What he taught was perfectly clear to Jesus because he is God. His humanity couldn’t quite grasp how lost we all are and how our thoughts are all over the place most of the time. I do wonder how the disciples could be so dense and not remember how Jesus fed the first crowd. How would they ever discern the bad teaching from the Pharisees?
The disciples may have been too caught up in “how” Jesus was doing all these things. To see so many miracles must have really messed with their minds. Are we any better at understanding and trusting Jesus to come through for us in our time of need?
Jesus still seems determined to keep some of his miracles quiet. He doesn’t want to draw attention away from his message of salvation. Miracles tend to do that. There are plenty of distractions in life that can cloud our judgment or focus on what is important. Jesus came to seek and save the lost, and while he is living that purpose out, he is also changing lives with his miracles.
If you are feeling overwhelmed or unsure about something faith-related, seek counsel from a trusted Christian friend. Turning to Scripture is another way to put fears and doubts aside. Not knowing where to look can stop many from even opening a Bible. If that’s ever you, simply visit my blog and type in your search, and it will bring up devotions written on that topic, along with Bible verses for you to follow.
Reflect on this reading as well as Proverbs 2:6, which says, “For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”
Let’s pray. Lord Jesus, thank you for the understanding you have given me. I look forward to each new a-ha moment when reading your Word. Give me the discernment I need for today. I don’t want to miss a minute with you. Help me to see how you are directing my life so I can make the most of each moment. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
