I found something else I have in common with the disciples. I too suffer from short term memory loss. I like to think my case is not as severe as the disciples, but the truth is I think that mine is worse.
In Luke’s Gospel in Chapter 9 Jesus sends out his disciples to proclaim the kingdom of God. That is just what they did. The preached good news, healed the sick, and sent demons on the run. After hearing about the beheading of John, they return and together with Jesus they try to find a little solitude.
10 When the apostles returned, they reported to Jesus what they had done. Then he took them with him and they withdrew by themselves to a town called Bethsaida, 11 but the crowds learned about it and followed him. He welcomed them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed healing.
Luke 9:10-11 (NIV)
It sounded like a good idea, withdraw and get a little rest. It was not to be. The crowds found them. So Jesus did what Jesus does… He welcomed them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed healing. I am sure the crowd just continued to swell all day.
The disciple then sense a problem, these people are going to get hungry. They also sense a solution, send them away.
12 Late in the afternoon the Twelve came to him and said, “Send the crowd away so they can go to the surrounding villages and countryside and find food and lodging, because we are in a remote place here.”
Luke 9:12 (NIV)
It seemed like a reasonable solution didn’t it? or was it? I believe they were suffering from short term memory loss. This was Jesus – the one who had taught them and empowered them to go on their first short term mission trip. This was Jesus – the one who casts out demons, heals the sick and gives sight to the blind. This was Jesus – who seems to always be 3 steps ahead of the disciples.
Where is their confidence in God’s ability to provide for them? They did what I do. Their first step was spot on – they came to Jesus with their concern. But this is where we are so alike. Rather then just leaving the concern there, and trust that Jesus will deal with it – they start making suggestions on how to best deal with the situation.
How many times does God need to prove himself faithful in my life before I stop bring my needs, and suggested ideas to him? Haven’t I like the disciples seen any number of miracles, yet I still at times think that the Lord needs a few fresh ideas on how to deal with the situations in my life.
Having trouble making ends meet with our current mortgage, I have a solution Lord. Lets sell the house and move to a smaller town home. Lets see how that’s working out… over 50 showing and not a single offer. OK so maybe you have a better plan Lord. So now I sit here having witnessed the feeding of the 5,000-4,998 as God “daily and richly provides all that I need to support this body and life” (Luther)
QUESTIONS: How has God demonstrated his provision in your life? Let the conversation begin. CLICK HERE