“His heart was moved with pity for them.” (Mark 6:34)
Out of the frying pan and into the fire. That’s probably how the disciples felt in today’s Gospel story. They had just returned from a great mission trip. They were excited, exhilarated, and enthusiastic about everything they had seen, but as you can imagine, they were also very tired. Yet even as they head out with Jesus to what is supposed to be a quiet place, a crowd of people finds out about it and meets them there. Instead of being annoyed, Jesus is moved with compassion and begins to teach them.
If we read a little farther in Mark’s Gospel, we see how Jesus asked his disciples, who were probably still tired, to rise to the occasion and provide food for all these people. You can just imagine them sighing in resignation and trying to figure out how they’re going to find the food—and the energy—for such a task. It is in this very moment that Jesus supplies them with grace to perform one of the most well-known miracles of his ministry.
How many times have you felt like the disciples? All you want to do is rest, and something suddenly goes wrong. It might be as small as a child spilling a bottle of juice on the floor or something as serious as a troubling medical diagnosis. Either way, your plans are out the window, and you have no idea how you’re going to manage.
This is when Jesus comes to our aid, just as he did for the disciples. Even when we think we can’t go on, he offers us the grace to keep moving forward. It may be a gift of patience or a newfound strength or a sudden clarity of mind. Whatever it is, you can be sure that it’s exactly what you need.
If you are feeling stressed today, take a deep breath and ask the Lord for his strength and grace. Turn the whole situation over to him, whatever it is. As your day progresses, be careful not to try to take it all back. He is always with you, ready to help you shoulder whatever burdens come your way!
“Jesus, help me to rely on you in times of strain and stress. Walk with me through the difficult moments and help me to lean on your strength and grace.”
Hebrews 13:15-17, 20-21; Psalm 23:1-6