Monday, September 8, 2014
Matthew 14:15-16 Now when it was evening, the disciples came to him and said, "This is a desolate place, and the day is now over; send the crowds away to go into the villages and buy food for themselves." But Jesus said, "They need not go away; you give them something to eat."
ALONE WITH JESUS
Jesus had wanted to be in a solitary place. He had just heard about the killing of John the Baptizer, and He could have used some time with His disciples alone, and just plain alone. But it wasn't to be.
The crowds of people heard where He was sailing and followed Him on foot around the lake. Perhaps they also had just heard about John. Sad news travels fast.
Jesus had wanted to be alone, but when He saw the crowds He had compassion. He both taught them and healed their sick. We may never walk around the Sea of Galilee, but when we are troubled, He is the One to come to.
Now it was getting toward evening, and He who had wanted to be alone now had a legitimate reason for sending the people away. His disciples saw that! "Send them away ... to buy food." But no.
His response did not include the solution His disciples came up with. Now He says, "They need not go away; you give them something to eat."
Even when we think that we have the perfect answer to a problem, our surprising Savior may have something else in mind altogether. He may even let us be a part of His solution!
