Present for a miracle?

Have you wondered why Jesus performed some of those miracles? And why do we not see any of them?

We cannot know in most cases, but in one we do:

This group of listeners had a specific, practical need.  Jesus had the compassion to not only see that but also provide the answer. Food.

By comparison, our generation cannot go five steps without stuffing something in our mouths.  But look at these folk...

I don't know about you, but three days would qualify as torture to me!

Then, there is another 'inconvenience.'  Would you trudge dusty trails for hours, only to sit on the ground and listen to teaching for three days? No? 

No great worship music, comfy seating, or air conditioning.  More like blazing sun and sore bottoms!

All this highlights how these people hungered for more; they sought the reality of the kingdom Jesus shared with them. Three days of discomfort had not discouraged their desire to learn more.

Their bodies and minds were surely feeling the lack after such a time.  There was no lack of growling stomachs and whining children by now. They had most likely slept on the ground and had no more food or drink than what they carried for quite a while.

I don't think anyone I know would 'put up with' such a challenge.  Aren't we, those alive now, wimps when compared with these hardy souls? I know I am!

Now, bread was the need, and the means of His compassion.

The 4000 men, not to mention the women  and children present, received a great multiplication of matter beyond our comprehension.  Seven loaves of bread turned out to be enough food to fill all present, and still provide seven large baskets of leftovers.  A few fish that were volunteered also 'expanded' at His touch to fill those hungry listeners.

First, spiritual nourishment was provided, then the physical. We rarely understand how vital the first was.  Our eyes are always on the physical.

Be aware that not everyone in Israel on that day was fed.  Only those who walked after Jesus, sought out His teaching, and remained with Him during those marathon conference messages took part in that meal.

Why, then, are we dismayed when we do not see, let alone receive, the good blessings of the Lord?  Are we present where HE is? Have we heard His voice and followed? Have we lingered during inconvenience and discomfort?

That is the question we should ask ourselves first.  If we are following, listening, and walking after Him, then we WILL see provision and have what we need... lest we collapse on the way...

He never changes.  Neither does His compassion for those following Him.

Image: ChatGPT