The apostles have just returned from a successful mission. They healed sicknesses and drove out demons. They relied on God for everything and aced the test!

Then the bomb drops. Jesus receives the tragic news that John the Baptist was horrifically and wrongfully executed. Jesus takes them to a remote location for much-needed rest and time to grieve. However, the lost and needy crowds find them.

Jesus doesn’t turn them away. Instead, he meets all of their needs - great and small. While still reeling from one of his greatest personal losses, Jesus performs one of his greatest miracles: the Feeding of the Five Thousand. Oh, and he walks on water. During a storm. No big deal. His disciples’ actions reveal they still lack faith and understanding of his mission.

What I love most about these accounts is what is NOT there. No lecture. No rebuke. Jesus doesn’t tell the crowds to leave him alone because he’s too tired. He doesn’t tell the disciples they should know better by now. No, Jesus is always gentle, patient, and tender with his children. Yes, he reminds them to have faith, but he is never harsh. Whenever you hear the whisper of condemnation, I assure you that is not the voice of truth, but the enemy (Rom. 8:1-2, 1 Pet. 5:8). I encourage you to read these wonderful stories of Jesus today and spend time taking in his wonderful love for YOU!

Renita

(Matthew 14:1-31, Mark 6:6-52, Luke 9:1-17, John 6:1-24)