Jesus is back home again and the locals are skeptical of his work because they know him. Funny how we write off people because we know about them and make heroes out of ones we don't really know. Even though Jesus spoke with wisdom, he was written off. As a result, the power (healing) did not go along with the teaching. Lack of faith, the unwillingness to act on convictions, inhibits the natural desire of God to heal us and liberate us from suffering. In other words, it is not that God won't heal; it is that we will not allow Him to heal.
Jesus decides to send out the apostles (12) in pairs to do what he has been doing. Note here that "church" is not Jesus doing it but us who do it. Christians are never Lone Rangers. We are to work together not solo. Also, Jesus suggests not being burdened down with a lot of stuff. How much stuff do we have that keeps us occupied with maintaining it or getting more of it. Too much stuff is a hindrance to the Gospel and, therefore to faith and the power of God. Lastly, Jesus gives permission to move on from skeptics, not to coerce people to listen. We must witness (tell about the power of Jesus) but the results are up to the other and God. The message is simple "repent" or to turn away from doing without God.
Jesus' cousin is killed because of a grudge. Jesus goes on with the inner group of 12. He recommends rest. We all need that and often make excuses for not getting it. Note, however, the need (compassion means to suffer with others) causes Jesus to forgo rest for a while.
Well, 5000 men (plus women and children) get hungry. The apostles tell Jesus to stir up some magic and fed them. Jesus turns this back on them and says, "You do it." Jesus has been teaching that the church people have the power. Faith yields power. The apostles still don't get it. Jesus is also preparing them for when he is no longer there. THEY are to be his power after he leaves. Jesus, using the actions of our Sunday Communion service (take, bless, break, give) not only feeds the crowd, but over feeds them. The point? We have all the resources we need if we couple them with the power of God. Faith is power.
Jesus needs to pray – to get reconnected with his power – God. He comes to the aid of his friends who are in danger as sea. They still do not get it. They are just scared. Remember fear and power to not coincide. You get one or the other. Hard hearts (unwillingness to let go and believe) keep us from all sorts of blessings from God.
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