Matthew 14:34-36: Jesus Heals

Matthew 14:34-36 MKJV And when they had passed over, they came to the land of Gennesaret. (35) And recognizing Him, the men of that place sent to all that neighborhood, and brought to Him all who were diseased. (36) And they begged Him that they might only touch the hem of His robe. And as many as touched were made perfectly whole.

After Jesus calmed the storm, James and John slowly rowed across the still waters. The moon provided ample light to see the outline of Gennesaret in the distance. Gazing at the dim image in the distance the disciples considered Jesus’ latest miracle. They questioned why Jesus did not calm the storm until He entered into the boat. What they did not know is, Jesus saw the storm coming, and began His journey to meet the disciples before it arrived.

How did this apply to the lessons they had learned from the parables Jesus had told them? Was it related to Jesus’ miracle feeding the four thousand? Andrew concentrated on his vision of Heaven, and how quickly everything will change when Jesus takes them with Him. He thought about the creation written in Genesis, remembering how the Spirit had moved upon the waters, separating the water from the dry land. He thought, truly, Jesus is the Son of God.

They arrived in Gennesaret before dawn. The disciples and Jesus filed out of the boat onto dry ground. If the disciples had not been so tired, they would have been praising God for being them to land safely. Jesus walked up the beach a short distance, lying down exhausted from the days events. The disciples joined Him in a small circle.

At first light Aran stepped out from his home, pausing for a moment to run his fingers over the law carved into the door posts. After a momentary review of each, he continued to the beach to pray. Little did he know he would find Jesus and His disciples sleeping on the beach. His excitement outweighed his better judgment, as he walked straight to the middle of the circle and woke Jesus. “Master, I am so happy to see you. I will have my wife prepare something to eat right away.” He immediately turned, and hurried back into his home informing his wife they had visitors. After explaining the situation to her, he realized he had left Jesus and His disciples on the beach. “Excuse me, I just realized I left our guests on the beach.”

As Aran was ushering Jesus and His disciples into his house, a number of neighbors poked their heads out of their doors to see what the commotion was. Word spread quickly about Jesus. Unlike many towns Jesus had visited, the people did not rush to Him to satisfy their own needs or curiosity, but rather went to their neighbors, and the surrounding towns to spread the news. People began to come from far and wide. Jesus was delighted to see people helping one another, putting the needs of others before themselves. He could see the Spirit working on their hearts in a mighty way.

Phoebe noticed the entire town leaving. Everyone was headed down the road in the same direction. She asked a neighbor what the excitement was about. She answered, “Jesus is in Gennesaret. Could this be true? Could Jesus be so near at just the right time? It seemed like a miracle. Phoebe’s mother lay dying on the bed. All she had to do was get a few neighbors to help carry her mother to Jesus, and everything would be fine. She ran in to tell her mother the good news, “Jesus is in Gennesaret. I can find someone to take you there, and we know He can heal you!” Her mother was unresponsive. Phoebe’s worries over her mother had suddenly turned to joy. She quickly packed a few things, water and a little food for the short journey, kissed her mother, and went out into the street to find some help.

The entire town was deserted. She ran down the street from house to house looking for anyone who may be able to help her. No one was there. She sat down on a little bench and began to cry. She could not understand how her emotions went from and all time low, to a high she had never felt, to utter defeat. She must think. What could she do? She ran around to the back of the houses. If only she could find a donkey, or even a cow, or something. The animals were also gone.

Phoebe ran back to the house. She looked around for some kind of inspiration or idea. Her mother was too weak to stand, much less walk. She remembered seeing this done once, maybe it will work. She laid the blanket on the floor next to the bed, then carefully moved her mother from the bed to the blanket. She gathered up the ends of the blanket and pulled. It took all her might to drag her mother to the door. This may have worked for a stronger person, but not for a thirteen year old.

She suddenly remembered seeing someone dragging a kind of stretcher. The person had a load on the stretcher, lifted one end, and dragged the other. She could make one that carry her mother to Gennesaret.

Phoebe darted back outside looking for materials. She had a vision of what she needed to make. Now it was a matter of finding the right materials.

It was approaching noon, and the sun was beating down. As she looked for the right pieces to make the stretcher, a sense of urgency began to overwhelm her. She had to arrive at Gennesaret before Jesus left. She knew Jesus did not spend much time in one place. Phoebe began praying.

On the fence were two long, narrow pieces of wood. These would be perfect. Sitting in a wood pile along the house she found other smaller sticks to use. Now all she needed was some rope or twine. As she prayed for the last missing part, her eyes rested upon a length of rope neatly arranged and hanging from a peg. Carrying all the material into the house she quickly arranged them on the floor next to her mother. “Don’t worry mother, I know God is not going to let us down. This will only take a few minutes, and we will be on our way.” Phoebe did not want to concentrate in her mother’s condition, which had been quickly deteriorating. Her mother did not make a sound all day. Phoebe knew that was not a good sign. As she assembled the stretcher, she prayed, and prayed her mother would live long enough to make it to Jesus.

Her thin and nimble fingers quick tied the sticks together to form the pattern she had in her mind. This was something she had never done before. She praised God out load for the skills He had given her when she needed them most.

Once completed, she covered the structure with a blanket to make her mother more comfortable. She then rolled her mother on her side, and laid the stretcher next to her. She rolled her mother onto the stretcher, and covered her with the blanket she had been laying on. “Well this is it Lord, please be with us, and make this thing hold up for the journey.” She went to the front, lifted the poles and walked out the door. She thought to herself, this is much easier than I had imagined.

After dragging her mother for almost a half an hour Phoebe’s little legs and arms began to tire. This was a difficult task for a thirteen year old girl. Her love for her mother, faith in Jesus, and her determination carried her past the point if breaking. After another fifteen minutes, she collapsed along the road. After a brief rest she lifted the two poles and continued the trek. After a short distance her arms and legs gave out again. She sat at the front of the stretcher her mother was laying on and cried. She cried and begged God for the strength to finish their journey to Jesus. She cried and waited for her strength to return. Suddenly she heard a voice behind her, “is there anything we can do to help?” She turned around to see two men walking up the road behind her. “I have to get my mother to Jesus. She is very sick and I know Jesus is able to heal her.” Without a word the two men lifted up her mother. One of them asked, “are you strong enough to make the trip,” Phoebe sprang to her feet thanking the men and leading the way. With no loss for words, Phoebe told the men all about her ordeal and how God had blessed her earlier in the day. Her talk was positive and uplifting. She suddenly remembered she had put some figs, raisins, bread and water on the stretcher with her mother. She asked the men if they wanted anything to eat or drink. One of them answered, “we only have a short distance to go, and judging by the condition of your mother, time is of the essence.

As soon as the village was in site it became evident Jesus was still there. The group of people in the small village was larger than the village itself. Hope flowed through Phoebe’s heart like never before, until they drew near enough to see how tightly packed the crowd was. She questioned out load, “how are we ever going to get through this crowd and find Jesus?” One of the men answered, “have faith, the Spirit has carried you this far.”

As they neared the village the man in the front directed Phoebe to the shoreline, “this will be a quicker route.” Bypassing the crowd they quickly moved along the shore. Phoebe could see the entire crowd beginning to shift, moving toward them. For a second she thought the crowd was going to block their way. She turned around to say, “we had better hurry.” She saw her mother on the ground, the men were gone. She though to herself, “why did they leave? How am I supposed to drag this through the sand? Why did we take this route? I will never be able to do this on my own.” As she turned around to estimate the distance remaining, she saw Jesus walking toward her. He came right up to her, placed His hand on her head He asked, “what do we have here?” With tears of joy streaming down her eyes Phoebe exclaimed, “I didn’t know what to do. My mother was so sick. When I heard you were here, and then I looked for help, no one was around, so I prayed and remembered seeing this thing, so I built one, and along the road, I couldn’t go on any further, so I prayed. And these two men helped me. I don’t know where they have gone.”

Phoebe uncovered her mother so Jesus could see her. She noticed her mother was hardly breathing. She placed her ear next to her mother’s face to hear if she had any breath left at all. She could not hear a thing. Then there was a short, shallow breath. While she was waiting for another Jesus laid down with His head on her chest, and His arms around her. Jesus began a short prayer, “Father, if it is your will, reward this little girl and her mother according to their faith,”

Jesus lay there with His head resting upon her chest. One minute passed, then two. Three minutes seemed like an eternity. Many people gathered around. All was silent, eyes fixed on Jesus and the woman, listening and watching for the first sign of a recovery. At last the woman took a deep breath, sat up, and asked for something to drink. Phoebe was so excited she flung herself around to hug her mother’s shoulders. Jesus put His arms around Phoebe and her mother. John kneeled down to give her some water. A few moments ago she was too weak to breath, now Priscilla was sitting up pulling Phoebe close to her. She looked over at Jesus kneeing next to her. Looking at Him, she wondered why she was here along the shore. She looked down at herself, feeling a little embarrassed she tried covering herself with the blanket. The look in Jesus’ eyes gave her comfort. She dropped the blanket to the ground. Sitting there, not knowing how she got there, or how long she had been there, she was at a loose for words. For quite some time she wanted to find Jesus and hear Him speak. All at once her memory came back. She remembered being sick the night before, but could not remember anything after falling to sleep. Priscilla asked, “did you heal me?” Jesus didn’t say a word, but leaned forward to once again hug her and Phoebe, still clinging to her mother. Jesus whispered in her ear, “my Father in Heaven healed you. Love your daughter, she has done so much for you.”

Jesus repeated a number of His parables in Gennesaret. His disciples received new light every time they heard them. The people were amazed at His teaching. When Jesus dismissed them at the end of the day, many discussed and reviewed what they had just heard. Phoebe told her mother what she had gone through during the day, and how the two men had helped her. She always wondered what happened to them.

Matthew 14:22-33: Jesus Calms the Wind and Waves

Matthew 14:22-33 MKJV And immediately Jesus constrained His disciples to get into a boat and to go before Him to the other side, while He sent the crowds away. (23) And when He had sent the crowds away, He went up into a mountain apart to pray. And when evening had come, He was there alone. (24) But the boat was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves; for the wind was against them. (25) And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went to them, walking on the sea. (26) And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a phantom! And they cried out for fear. (27) But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, Be of good cheer, I AM! Do not fear. (28) And Peter answered Him and said, LORD, if it is You, tell me to come to You on the water. (29) And He said, Come. And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. (30) But seeing that the wind was strong, he was afraid. And beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me! (31) And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him; and said to him, Little-faith! Why did you doubt? (32) And when they had come into the boat, the wind ceased. (33) And those in the boat came and worshiped Him, saying, Truly You are the Son of God.

 

After feeding the four thousand, Jesus knew there were a number of men who did not open their hearts to understand His parables, miracles, or mission. He knew what harm they could cause if they were allowed to present their ideas to Him and His disciple.

As the sun was setting the sea was calm. Jesus quietly gathered up His disciples. “I want you to return to the shore on the other side and wait for me.” Peter asked Him, “where are you going?” Jesus exclaimed, “up to the mountain to pray. I have a few things to work out on my own.” Remembering how He had been troubled by the news of John’s death, Peter gathered the others into the boat, and they cast off, headed for the other side.

Jesus climbed to the top of the mountain, praying as He ascended. Beginning the rigorous climb, His mind was set on John, and the trials He knew were ahead of Him. The long arduous trek reminded Him of the trials everyone faced on their journey to Heaven. Jesus sat upon a rock which for centuries had overlooked the sea. As He prayed, He was shown two lessons His followers must understand. They must have a proper vision of Heaven. With this they would be able to keep the trials they were about to face in perspective. Knowing this world was only temporary would help them overcome their trials. This was the only way to experience the love His Father had for them. This would provide the comfort required in times of trouble. Both of these required an open heart, an open mind with vision beyond the material world. Jesus prayed for the proper examples so the lessons would never be forgotten, but handed down until the end of days.

Looking out over the sea, Jesus could see and hear the winds increasing in speed and strength. The light of the full moon showed trees bending under the mighty power of the winds. The Spirit told Jesus what He must do to teach the disciples the lessons they needed. In the darkness Jesus began His decent down the mountain.

James and John also heard the approaching wind, and knew it was not good news. Their years of experience on the seas told them to point the tiny boat into the wind. Immediately upon changing course, the waves began to crash upon the small craft. Wave after wave beat against the boat. Water splashed up over the bow. As James and John fought against the wind and waves others bailed out water as quickly as possible. John knew they were not rowing on the intended course, but not turning the boat into the wrath of storm could result in a loss of everything.

After an hour of struggling against the storm, Peter looked up at the sky. It was unusual to have such a wind on a clear night. The moon and stars were completely visible. Peter looked behind Him to see if the shore was insight, wondering if turning the boat to the south would save them. He noticed a figure on the water. At first he thought his eyes were deceiving him. Or maybe it was a devils spout, a rare cyclone forming on the open sea. He covered his face with his hands to keep the blowing water out of his face. Examining the water around the strange figure in the distance he saw a calm surrounding it. A little while later he noticed the figure dressed in a white cloak, but it was not being blown by the wind. In shear terror Peter called out, “It is a phantom!” James and John looked up from their labored rowing. Without skipping a beat they cried out in fear, “lets get away from this place.” The others turned around, waiting for their eyes to adjust to the scene before adding in, “it is a demon. What are we to do?” Jesus called out, “Be of good cheer, I AM! Do not fear.”

Seeing the sea was calm around the figure, Peter tried standing in the boat as it was still tossed by the wind and waves. He could not stand straight, but hung onto the boat with his left hand. He used his right hand to direct his voice as he shouted, “LORD, if it is You, tell me to come to You on the water.” Jesus stopped a short distance from the boat. The look on Jesus’ face and the calm water around Him gave a feeling of confidence to Peter. Jesus answered, “come!”

The water between Jesus and the back of the boat suddenly became calm, leaving a path between Peter and Jesus. The front of the boat was still caught up in the storm, making it difficult for Peter to steady himself for the first step. He looked at Jesus, who didn’t say a thing, but opened up His arms to welcome Peter. Grabbing onto the side of the boat with both hands, staying as low as possible, Peter worked his way out of the boat, placing one foot upon the water, pressing it down to test the footing. To his surprise, he found it as solid and any earth he had walked upon. He had no explanation for it, and the situation left him little opportunity to think of one, as his faith directed him toward Jesus.

As soon as Peter placed his other foot on the water he straightened upright, looking at Jesus, hardly believing he was actually walking on water. Jesus walked toward him. Peter’s right hand still rested on the side of the boat which was violently tossing and turning with the waves. Looking at the scene James and John discontinued their rowing. The boat was quickly launched backward just missing Peter. As he turned to watch the boat skipping past him, he began to sink. He turned back to Jesus shouting, “Lord, save me!” Jesus reached out, taking hold of Peter’s hand, lifting him out of the water saying, “What little faith! Why do you doubt?”

Andrew, sat stunned at the front of the boat. The waves crashing over did little to distract his attention. He pondered the scene, wondering what lessons Jesus was teaching, and how this related to the parables He had taught. Holding onto Peter, Jesus helped him into the rocking boat. The sea and winds still threatened the disciples, but knowing Jesus was present felt safe and assured. The moment Jesus’ foot entered the boat, the winds died, and the sea calmed. The miracle stunned all the disciples, who bowed down to Jesus inside the boat, with the exception of Andrew, who said, ” truly, you are the Son of God.”

Andrew began to understand the lessons Jesus was teaching. He remembered what Jesus has taught about the resurrection. This was the day all of Jesus’ followers would be taken to Heaven. Andrew could see a connection. The second Jesus entered the boat, the winds and waves lost their power. The threats and fear were gone There was no more reason to worry. There was nothing but peace, and Jesus. That is the way it will be when Jesus returns. Those alive will see an instant change from a disturbed world, to one without cares or worries. Everything will be calm and serene. When Jesus appears the cares of the world will end as quickly as the storm.

Mateo 14:15-21: Jesus Feed Limang Thousand

Mateo 14:15-21 MKJV At gabi na darating sa, ang Kanyang mga alagad ay dumating sa Kanya, na nagsasabi, ang lugar ay desyerto at ang oras na nawala sa pamamagitan ng. Ipadala ang karamihan ng tao sa palayo sa gayon ay maaari silang pumunta sa Baryo at bumili ng pagkain para sa kanilang sarili. (16) Subalit si Jesus ay sinabi sa kanila, hindi nila kailangang umalis, bigyan sila ng ilang makakain. (17) At kanilang sinabi sa Kanya, mayroon kami dito lamang limang loaves at dalawang isda. (18) At sinabi niya, Dalhin ang mga ito dito sa akin. (19) At Siya commanded ang karamihan ng tao upang ihiga sa damo. At Siya kinuha ang limang loaves at dalawang isda, at hinahanap hanggang sa langit na Siya mapalad at sinira, at ibinigay ang mga loaves sa Kanyang mga alagad. At ang mga alagad ay ibinigay sa ang karamihan ng tao. (20) At lahat ng mga ito kumain at ay napuno. At kinuha sila ng labindalawang basket ng kamay buong mula sa fragments na nanatili. (21) At sila na kinakain ay halos 5000 mga tao, bukod sa mga kababaihan at mga bata.

John 6:1-15 MKJV Pagkatapos ng mga bagay na ito si Jesus ay nagpunta sa paglipas ng Sea of Galilee, Dagat ng Tiberias. (2) At ang isang mahusay na maraming tao na sumunod sa Kanya, dahil sila nakita ang kanyang mga himala na kung saan ginawa niya sa sakit bago. (3) At si Jesus ay nagpunta sa isang bundok at Sab doon sa Kanyang mga alagad. (4) At ang Passover ay malapit sa, ng isang kapistahan ng mga Hudyo. (5) Pagkatapos si Jesus lifted ang kanyang mga mata at nakita ang isang malaking karamihan ng tao na dumating sa Kanya. Sinabi niya sa Philip, Saan kami ay dapat bumili ng mga loaves upang ang mga ito ay maaaring kumain? (6) At sinabi niya ito upang subukan sa kanya, para niya ang kanyang sarili alam kung ano ang gusto niya gawin. (7) Philip ay sumagot sa Kanya, Loaves para sa dalawang daang denarii ay hindi sapat para sa kanila, na ang bawat isa ay maaaring tumagal nang kaunti. (8) Isa ng Kanyang mga alagad, Andrew, kapatid Simon Pedro, sinabi sa Kanya, (9) May isang batang lalaki rito na may limang loaves ng sebada at dalawang maliit na isda, ngunit kung ano ang mga ito sa maraming? (10) At si Jesus ay sinabi, ang lalaki sumandal. At nagkaroon magkano damo sa lugar. Kaya ang mga tao na reclined, halos limang thousand sa numero. (11) At si Jesus ay kinuha ang loaves, at kapag siya ay naibigay na salamat, ibinahagi niya sa mga alagad, at ang mga alagad sa mga na reclined; at gayon din naman ang mga isda, hangga’t sila gusto. (12) At kapag sila ay napuno, Sinabi niya sa Kanyang mga alagad, ipunin ang mga fragments na natira, kaya na walang ay nawala. (13) Samakatuwid sila ay natipon at napuno ng labindalawang handbaskets may mga fragments ng ang limang loaves barley na natira sa mga na kinakain. (14) Pagkatapos nakikita ang mga himala na si Jesus mismo, ang mga tao ay sinabi, ito ay tunay na Propeta, ang Isa na nanggagaling sa mundo. (15) Kaya kapag si Jesus ay pinaghihinalaang na sila darating at kumuha sa Kanya sa pamamagitan ng lakas, na maaaring sila gumawa Siya ng isang hari, si Jesus withdrew muli upang bundok na ang nag-iisa sa pamamagitan ng kanyang sarili.

Pagkatapos nakakagamot ang isang malaking bilang ng mga tao na pagsunod kay Jesus matapos na tumatawid sa makitid na bahagi ng timog Shores ng Galilee, ang araw ay mababa sa kalangitan. Sa gabi darating na ang mga alagad inisip ito ay matalino upang ipadala ang mga tao sa likod habang ito ay pa rin sapat na liwanag upang maglakbay. Philip ay nagtanong sa Kanya kung dapat silang magpadala ng mga tao sa Baryo bumili ng pagkain sa kumain. Si Jesus ay tumingin sa paligid sa libo-libo ng mga tao na kumalat sa mga lumiligid Hills. Ang kanyang puso ay napuno ng kagalakan na makakita ng mga taong nag-aaplay kanyang mga aralin sa kanilang buhay. Nadama ni Jesus na ang kapangyarihan mula sa Kanyang Ama ay Pinalaking sa pamamagitan ng pananampalataya ng mga tao. Alam niya na nagkaroon walang Kanyang Ama ay hindi maaaring, at hindi para sa Kanyang mga tao. Bilang Philip naghintay para sa isang sagot, si Jesus ay sarado ang kanyang mga mata para sa isang maikling panalangin. Feeling ang kapangyarihan ng Espiritu pagpuno sa Kanya sa umaapaw, binuksan ni Jesus ang Kanyang mga mata at sinabi, “Saan namin ay dapat bumili ng mga loaves sa gayon na ang mga maaaring kumain?” Si Jesus ay pagsubok Philip. Siya nais na malaman kung Philip ay naghahanap para sa at pakiramdam ng parehong kapangyarihan. Mga ang Philip sumagot Kanya, “Loaves para sa dalawang daang denarii ay hindi sapat para sa kanila, na ang bawat isa ay maaaring tumagal nang kaunti.” Ay Philip prayed bago pagtatanong si Jesus?

Andrew pagkakaroon ng higit sa narinig ang pag-uusap, ba sa mga tao, nagtatanong kung anumang ay nagdala ng pagkain upang ibahagi. Elam ay nakikinig kay Jesus ipangaral, at hindi maaaring maghintay upang ibahagi ang kanyang mga payat supplies sa iba. Ang kanyang mga mata naiilawan up bilang malaking bilang pomegranates kapag narinig niya ang Andrew humihingi para sa pagkain upang ibahagi. Ang Elam tumakbo hanggang sa Andrew at exclaimed, “Mayroon akong pagkain, mayroon akong sapat na upang ibahagi sa lahat!” Andrew knelt down upang tumingin sa sako Elam ay buong kapurihan hawak ng bukas. Siya ay tumingin sa loob upang makita ang limang loaves ng sebada at dalawang maliit na isda. Andrew patted siya sa balikat sinasabi, “namin ito sa Jesus, at makita kung ano ang iba ay natagpuan.” Elam ng puso jumped na may kagalakan. Siya ay pagpunta upang matugunan Jesus. Lahat ng kanyang mga inaasahan ay lumampas sa pamamagitan ng pag-iisip na siya ay pagpunta upang ibahagi ang kanyang tanghalian sa Jesus.

Nagbabalik na si Jesus Andrew alam Kanya, “May isang batang lalaki rito na may limang loaves ng sebada at dalawang maliit na isda, ngunit kung ano ang mga ito sa maraming?” Si Jesus ay hindi maaaring makatulong ngunit mapapansin ang kaguluhan sa Elam ng mukha. Siya Sab pababa, ilagay ang batang lalaki sa kanyang kumandong, at ipaalam sa Elam ipakita sa Kanya ang kanyang kayamanan. Jesus exclaimed, “ito ay higit pa kaysa sa sapat.” Siya ay tumingin sa mga alagad na nagsasabi,. “Gumawa ng mga tao sumandal.” Lugar ay mahusay na sakop sa damo kung saan ginawa ang isang likas na malabo, na nagpapahintulot sa mga tao na umupo at relaks. Bilang mga alagad ay direct ang mga tao na umupo, nakukuha nila ang bawat walang laman basket na maaari nilang mahanap. Kapag ang lahat ay makaupo, si Jesus stood up, kinuha ng isang basket, at gaganapin ito sa harap ng Elam. Tinatanggalan ng laman ng kanyang sako sa basket ang Elam peered sa ibabaw ng gilid. Sa kanyang sako mukhang tulad ng isang malaking halaga ng pagkain. Ang limang loaves at dalawang maliit na isda mukhang nawala sa malaking basket. Jesus gaganapin basket ang mataas na higit sa kanyang ulo, na nagbibigay salamat sa Kanyang Ama para sa mga naghahanap ng matapos Kanya sa panahon ng araw, na nagpapahintulot sa Kanya upang ibahagi ang kanyang mga salita ng buhay sa kanila, at para sa pagkain na sila ay malapit na makatanggap. Jesus lowered ang basket, ngayon puno sa umaapaw sa tinapay at isda. Ang mga alagad na natipon sa paligid ni Jesus, pagpuno ng basket pagkatapos ng basket, pamamahagi ng pagkain sa mga tao. Si Jesus ay tumingin sa expression sa kanilang mga mukha bilang sila kinuha ang tinapay pagkatapos tinapay, ngunit ang basket na Siya ay pinagpala nanatiling buong. Sa araw na iyon sila ay fed higit sa 5000 mga tao, kasama ang mga kababaihan at mga bata.

Jesus Sab bumalik sa Elam kainan sa Kanyang kumandong, nakikinig sa tunog ng magdaldalan pagtaas sa dami ng balita ng himala kumalat sa buong kampo. Ito ay mahusay na upang marinig ang mga kaya maraming mga tao pagpuri Diyos. Ang mga kababaihan ay nagsimulang upang magsimula sa kanta, ang mga tao na sumali sa, pagpuri Diyos para sa mga himala niya ay ibinahagi sa kanila. Si Jesus ba kung sila ay ginawa ang koneksyon. Naiintindihan nila ang aral ng pagtulong sa isa’t isa, sila maunawaan kung paano ang Ama ay laging handa na, payag, at upang matulungan ang mga na sundin Siya sa isang bukas at tapat na puso? Ibig nilang makita ang espirituwal na koneksyon sa pagitan ng mga tinapay at Salita, at ang mga isda at pagtulong sa isa’t isa, ang mga halimbawa nila itakda upang palakasin at hinihikayat ang isa’t isa?

Kapag ang pagkanta ang quieted down, si Jesus ay nakinig sa tunog ng mga waves na splashing sa pampang. Iba nakinig sa nakapapawi ritmo, at nagsimulang dozing off sa isang matiwasay na idlip. Mapanglaw na lugar ay nasira lamang sa pamamagitan ng paminsan-minsang tunog ng mga bata tumatawa at naglalaro. Nagtagal din sila inilatag down, ang ilang mga pagmamasid sa araw set, ang mga iba na pakulot up sa tabi ng kanilang ina. Jesus narinig ang isang tao komento, “ito ay tunay na Propeta, ang Isa na nanggagaling sa mundo.” Iba na narinig ito ay naisip ng mga ito bilang isang papuri. Bagay loob Jesus direksiyon ito bilang higit pa sa isang babala. Bilang isinasaalang-alang niya ang kanilang mga saloobin, at ang paraan na marami sa kanila ay tumingin sa Kanya, ito ay naging maliwanag, sila ay isinasaalang-alang ng mga paraan ng paggamit ng kanyang kapangyarihan upang matupad ang kanilang mga makasarili desires. Samakatuwid kapag si Jesus ay pinaghihinalaang na sila darating at kumuha sa Kanya sa pamamagitan ng lakas, na maaaring sila gumawa Siya ng isang hari, si Jesus withdrew muli upang bundok na ang nag-iisa sa pamamagitan ng kanyang sarili.

Ang balita ng kamatayan ni John noon ay pa rin sariwa sa kanyang isip. Jesus alam sa plano ng Diyos ay hindi isama ang isang mahigit magtapon ng kasalukuyang pagtatatag. Si Jesus alam kung paano ang mga Romano na pamahalaan ay ginagamit upang matupad ang hula. Siya prayed para sa mga may mga misconceptions ng Kanyang misyon. Siya prayed sila buksan ang kanilang mga puso sa pag-ibig na Siya ay nagtuturo. Kung lamang ang maaari nilang maintindihan ang mundo na ito ay hindi kung ano ang Diyos ay inilaan. Kung lamang ang maaari nilang makita ang mga hindi nakikita na battles fought ang lahat sa paligid ng mga ito. Jesus prayed na sila maunawaan na ang isang araw ay siya bumalik upang maibalik ito sa mundo na ang kagandahan ng kapayapaan, at kaluwalhatian na ito isang beses ay. Jesus ay naisip ng mga regalo na siya ay bibigyan ng mundo na ito sa paglikha. Naghahanap down mula sa bundok ng kanyang isip ay nagpahinga sa mga imahe ng perpektong lupa, at ang perpektong tao na nabuo sa kanyang imahe. Tanawin na ito ay ibinigay ni Jesus ang lakas upang harapin ang mga pagsubok sa maaga, at ang pagpapasiya upang ibahagi ang Diyos plano ng kaligtasan sa lahat ng Kanyang mga alagad, kaya’t maaari silang maging tapat na manggagawa ng ani para sa Ama.

Matthew 14:15-21: Jesus Feeds Five Thousand

Matthew 14:15-21 MKJV And evening coming on, His disciples came to Him, saying, The place is deserted and the time has already gone by. Send the crowd away so that they may go into the villages and buy food for themselves. (16) But Jesus said to them, They do not need to leave, you give them something to eat. (17) And they said to Him, We have here only five loaves and two fish. (18) And He said, Bring them here to Me. (19) And He commanded the crowd to recline on the grass. And He took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to Heaven He blessed and broke, and gave the loaves to His disciples. And the disciples gave to the crowd. (20) And they all ate and were filled. And they took up twelve hand baskets full from the fragments that remained. (21) And they who had eaten were about five thousand men, besides women and children.

John 6:1-15 MKJV After these things Jesus went over the Sea of Galilee, the Sea of Tiberias. (2) And a great multitude followed Him, because they saw His miracles which He did on the sick ones. (3) And Jesus went up into a mountain and sat there with His disciples. (4) And the Passover was near, a feast of the Jews. (5) Then Jesus lifted up His eyes and saw a great crowd come to Him. He said to Philip, Where shall we buy loaves so that these may eat? (6) And He said this to test him, for He Himself knew what He would do. (7) Philip answered Him, Loaves for two hundred denarii are not enough for them, that every one may take a little. (8) One of His disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to Him, (9) There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two small fish, but what are these among so many? (10) And Jesus said, Make the men recline. And there was much grass in the place. So the men reclined, about five thousand in number. (11) And Jesus took the loaves, and when He had given thanks, He distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to those who had reclined; and likewise of the fish, as much as they wanted. (12) And when they were filled, He said to His disciples, Gather up the fragments left over, so that nothing is lost. (13) Therefore they gathered and filled twelve handbaskets with fragments of the five barley loaves which were left over to those who had eaten. (14) Then seeing the miracle that Jesus did, those men said, This is truly the Prophet, the One coming into the world. (15) Therefore when Jesus perceived that they would come and take Him by force, that they might make Him a king, Jesus withdrew again to the mountain alone by Himself.

 

After healing a great number of people following Jesus after crossing the narrow portion of the southern shores of Galilee, the sun was low in the sky. With evening coming the disciples thought it was wise to send the people back while it was still light enough to travel. Philip asked Him if they should send the people into the villages to buy food to eat. Jesus looked around at the thousands of people spread out among the rolling hills. His heart was filled with the joy of seeing people applying His lessons to their lives. Jesus felt as if the power from His Father was magnified by the faith of the people. He knew there was nothing His Father could not, and would not do for His people. As Philip waited for an answer, Jesus closed His eyes for a short prayer. Feeling the power of the Spirit filling Him to overflowing, Jesus opened His eyes and said, “Where shall we buy loaves so that these may eat?” Jesus was testing Philip. He wanted to know if Philip was searching for and feeling the same power. Philip answered Him, “Loaves for two hundred denarii are not enough for them, that every one may take a little.” Had Philip prayed before questioning Jesus?

Andrew having over heard the conversation, wondered out among the people, inquiring if any had brought food to share. Elam had been listening to Jesus preach, and could not wait to share his meager supplies with others. His eyes lit up as big as pomegranates when he heard Andrew asking for food to share. Elam ran up to Andrew and exclaimed, “I have food, I have enough to share with everyone!” Andrew knelt down to look into the sack Elam was proudly holding open. He looked inside to see five barley loaves and two small fish. Andrew patted him on the shoulder saying, “we will take these to Jesus, and see what the others have found.” Elam’s heart jumped with joy. He was going to meet Jesus. All of his expectations were exceeded by the thought he was going to share his lunch with Jesus.

Returning to Jesus Andrew informed Him, “There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two small fish, but what are these among so many?” Jesus could not help but notice the excitement on Elam’s face. He sat down, placed the boy on His lap, and let Elam show Him his treasure. Jesus exclaimed, “this is more than enough.” He looked up at the disciples saying,. “Make the men recline.” The area was well covered in grass which made a natural matte, allowing people to sit and relax. As the disciples were directing the people to sit down, they gathered up the every empty basket they could find. Once everyone was seated, Jesus stood up, took a basket, and held it in front of Elam. Emptying his sack into the basket Elam peered over the edge. In his sack it looked like such a huge amount of food. The five loaves and two small fish looked lost in the large basket. Jesus held the basket high up over His head, giving thanks to His Father for looking after Him during the day, allowing Him to share His words of life with them, and for the food they were about to receive. Jesus lowered the basket, now filled to overflowing with bread and fish. The disciples gathered around Jesus, filling basket after basket, distributing food among the people. Jesus looked at the expression on their faces as they took out loaf after loaf, but the basket He had blessed remained full. That day they had fed more than five thousand men, plus women and children.

Jesus sat back with Elam dining on His lap, listening to the sound of the chatter increase in volume as news of the miracle spread throughout the camp. It was good to hear so many people praising God. The women began to break out in song, the men joining in, praising God for the miracle He had shared with them. Jesus wondered if they had made the connection. They understood the lesson of helping one another, did they understand how the Father is always ready, willing, and able to help those who follow Him with an open and sincere heart? Did they see the spiritual connection between the bread and Word, and the fish and helping one another, the examples they can set to strengthen and encourage one another?

When the singing quieted down, Jesus listened to the sound of waves splashing on the shore. Others listened to the soothing rhythm, and began dozing off in a tranquil slumber. The solitude was broken only by the occasional sound of children laughing and playing. Soon they also laid down, some watching the sun set, others curling up next to their mother. Jesus heard one man comment, “This is truly the Prophet, the One coming into the world.” Others who heard it thought of it as a compliment. Something inside Jesus addressed it as more of a warning. As He considered their thoughts, and the way many of them looked at Him, it became apparent, they were considering ways of using His power to fulfill their selfish desires. Therefore when Jesus perceived that they would come and take Him by force, that they might make Him a king, Jesus withdrew again to the mountain alone by Himself.

The news of John’s death was still fresh on His mind. Jesus knew God’s plan did not include an over throw of the current establishment. Jesus knew how the Roman government would be used to fulfill prophecy. He prayed for those with misconceptions of His mission. He prayed they would open their hearts to the love He was teaching. If only they could understand this world was not what God had intended. If only they could see the unseen battles being fought all around them. Jesus prayed they would understand that one day He would return to restore this world to the beauty, peace and glory it once was. Jesus thought of the gifts He had given this world at creation. Looking down from the mountain His mind rested upon the image of the perfect earth, and the perfect man formed in His image. This scene gave Jesus the strength to face the trials ahead, and the determination to share God’s plan of salvation with all of His disciples, so they can become faithful workers of the harvest for the Father.

Matthew 14:1-14: John the Baptist’s Death

Matthew 14:1-14 MKJV At that time Herod the tetrarch heard of the fame of Jesus (2) and said to his servants, This is John the Baptist. He has risen from the dead, and therefore the powerful works are working in him. (3) For Herod had laid hold on John, and had bound him, and had put him in prison because of Herodias his brother Philip’s wife. (4) For John said to him, It is not lawful for you to have her. (5) And when he desired to put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet. (6) But when Herod’s birthday was kept, the daughter of Herodias danced before them and pleased Herod. (7) So he promised with an oath to give her whatever she would ask. (8) And she, being instructed before by her mother, said, Give me John the Baptist’s head here on a platter. (9) And the king was sorry. But for the oath’s sake, and those reclining with him, he commanded it to be given. (10) And he sent and beheaded John in the prison. (11) And his head was brought on a platter and given to the girl. And she brought it to her mother. (12) And his disciples came and took up the body and buried it, and went and told Jesus. (13) When Jesus heard, He departed from there by boat into a deserted place apart. And hearing, the crowds followed Him on foot out of the cities. (14) And Jesus went out and saw a great crowd, and He was moved with compassion toward them. And He healed their sick.

 

The court of the palace smelled of roasted meat and stale wine. Herod was on the second day of his birthday celebration. He leaned over to one of his subjects and whispered in a slurred speech, “I have heard about the fame of Jesus. This is John the Baptist. He has risen from the dead, and therefore the powerful works are working in him.” His subject gazed back at him through hazed eyes, his thoughts clouded by wine, and quickly forgot what he was going to say.

Herod had planned this celebration for months, intending to receive some peace, and escape the thoughts which had been haunting him for more than a year. John had bravely spoken out about Herod’s marriage to Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife. According to Jewish law, this was the noble thing to do when a brother dies. The only problem was, his brother was still alive. It seems Herodias in her quest for power twisted the laws to benefit her goals. Herod being a man of low moral character was easily convinced to go along with what was thought of as a well conceived idea. The only problem was, God sent His Spirit to convict Herod’s conscience. It was a pain he could not shake, no matter what he tried. No matter how hard he tried to convince himself, he was in charge, and in control. Not even a king is a match for God’s will.

Herod had thought killing John would end the pain, but he feared an uprising of the people. It wasn’t the people under his rule he feared, it was the Roman authority. As long as he maintained order, he remained in power. He knew his position, and life were in danger the minute it appeared he was lightening, or loosing his control.

Herod’s life was a sad and lonely one. He married for love, but received none. His subjects hated him. The Roman authority barely acknowledged him. He felt they abused him. He lived a life of seclusion, he was convinced he could trust no one. He had one method of dealing with every threat, eliminate it. The murders only added the guilt that daily haunted him.

But the party must go on. His guests must remain entertained. Scattered over the palace court were bodies passed out on chairs, couches, and the floor from too much wine. Plates half full of uneaten food were laying everywhere. Herod’s mistrust was so intense, he would not allow common servants in the same room he occupied. Goblets of wine, empty and filled to varying degrees were scatted though out the room. Many of them tipped over, leaving puddles of wine every where. Drapes and decorations had been torn down and laid among the debris. The only sign of order was the dozen or so guards standing at attention, assigned to guard Herod’s life.

Seeing the party had passed its peak, Herodias sent in her daughter. She wanted to save her for the final, and most prestigious present of all. A well planned finale.

Herod sat up in his seat when Salome entered the room. He avoided speaking in an attempt to hid his drunkenness. Salome had a serious look on her face, which did hot change as she presented herself. An indication, she did not enjoy, or agree with the task given her by her mother. When the music started she began to dance. Her mother had chosen the most provocative costume and music arrangement. As your young slender body began to sway to the music, Herod became transfixed like a cobra to the music and movement of the tamer’s flute. In his drunken state, as lust took over his mind, he forgot she was his daughter in law, his brother’s child. The dancing went on and on as Herod began to feel flushed.

At last the music stopped, and so did Salome. She remained bowed at Herod’s feet, awaiting his sign of approval. At last Herod cleared his throat, and enough of his mind to acknowledge her, “Ask me whatever you desire from me, and I will give it to you.” And he swore to her, “Whatever you shall ask from me, I will give it to you, to the half of my kingdom.” And she went out and said to her mother, “What shall I ask?” And she said, “The head of John the Baptist.” And immediately going in with haste to the king, she asked, saying, “I desire that you give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter.” And becoming deeply grieved, the king, because of his oath, and those reclining together, he did not wish to reject her. And immediately the king sent an executioner and commanded his head to be brought. (Mark 6:23-27 MKJV)

A number of John’s disciples gathered at the door of his jail cell, trying to lift his sprit. They knew prison was the worst form of punishment for John, who learned from God in the open fields, forests, and deserts of the country. Open space was all John knew until he was cast in prison. When the guards arrived to take John away, something told them, this was the end. After seeing John suffer in the tiny, cramped, and dark cell, the thought crossed their minds, this may be the release John was looking for. And he went and beheaded him in the prison, and brought his head in a platter and gave it to the girl. And the girl gave it to her mother. (Mark 6:23-28 MKJV)

It was a victory Herodias coveted for some time. She thought little of the grief she caused her daughter, or her husband. She walked through the hallways of the palace into her room, dancing around in a demented form of celebration. She took the platter out to the balcony holding it high in the air, imagining the cheers of a crowd gather below her window. Her lust for revenge had hardened her heart to such a degree, she found satisfaction in the approval of imaginary subjects.

John’s disciples begged for John’s body. After going through channels, the prison keeper, knowing Herod’s condition, allowed them to take the body away. Four of his closest friends solemnly carried John’s body out of the prison, and through the streets in silence. One of God’s warriors had fallen in service to the Lord. Knowing Herod’s superstitious habits, and Herodian’s distorted personality, they buried the body in a secret location in the wilderness, with a view they knew John would have appreciated.

After a short, heart felt ceremony, they departed, searching for Jesus. After days of questioning people, and following leads, they finally came to Him along the shore. They listened to Jesus preach about the Kingdom of Heaven, where there would be no more suffering, no more pain, and no more tears. He talked about the peace and joy everyone will share. In Heaven people will not only understand perfect love and witness it in action, they will all apply it to their lives for eternity. He talked about neighbors helping neighbors, perfect temperatures, no more storms, droughts, or famine. Trees will be filled with nuts and fruits, sweeter than anyone has tasted here. Crops will not fail, food will always be plentiful, people will always have time for guests. Everyone will live in total harmony with God’s law. Love will rule the land, and the Son of man will live to serve. Hearts will be filled with a peace seldom felt in this world. Praises to God will be heard throughout the land.

After speaking, Jesus looked over at the four disciples. He could tell by the way they hung their heads something was troubling them. He had no idea the news they carried would effect Him on such an emotional level.

Jesus called them forward. The closer they came, the lower their heads hung. They found it hard to interrupt a sermon filled with such joy with the news they came to deliver. Jesus looked at them, put His hand gently under the chin of one, lifting his face so He could look into his eyes, and asked, “what is troubling you?” He answered, “we just came from John.” Jesus asked, “is he still in prison?” He answered, “no, we took him, and…” He could not finish the sentence. Jesus waited a moment and asked, “has John finished his work?” The answer was a simple, “yes.” That was all Jesus needed to hear.

It felt like the air had just been sucked out of His chest, and a vacuum existed where a few moments ago a glowing warmth was growing. This seemed to be a new emotion for Jesus, or a concentration of emotions He had felt before. On a spiritual level, John was more than a brother. John understood Jesus’ mission, and role in life. Although they were miles apart, it meant so much to Jesus knowing there was someone who understood Him. For the first time, Jesus felt a need to get away, to be alone. Not alone, but with the only other One who understood Him, His Father. Without warning He called James, John, Peter, and Andrew, told them to make the boat ready, they would depart immediately. They did not question their Master, but prepared the boat before anyone noticed what was happening. The next thing the people saw was Jesus entering into the boat, and drifting off across the water.

Inside the boat, Jesus covered His head. One of John’s disciples had told Peter the news. He whispered it to the others. They all understood Jesus’ silence. As Jesus prayed to His Father, the Holy Spirit was busy gathering the people into companies to follow Jesus on land. Jesus had little more than a half an hour of prayer, quite time with His Father before reaching shore. By that time Jesus knew His answer. It was God’s plan that His love, and healing power would flow though Jesus to the people about to arrive. It was the beginning of a double blessing upon His followers. The best cure for a broken heart was service to the Lord. As Jesus stepped from the boat onto land, He could see the people in the distance coming to Him with anticipation. Jesus received a blessing beyond belief as He watched neighbor helping neighbor, friend carrying friend. Once again a smile came to Jesus’ face, and the glow returned to His heart. The people had indeed been listening, learning, and sharing the glow in side their hearts.