We don't have enough bread - March 25

Today’s Readings:  AM Psalm 101, 109:1-30; PM Psalm 119:121-144
Gen. 50:15-26; 1 Cor. 12:1-11; Mark 8:11-26

We are facing limits around us: of travel, of employment, of worship space and communal gatherings, of pastoral services like weddings and funerals, and even of the gallons of milk we can buy at one time. We, too, get swept up into the mindset of the disciples in today’s gospel from Mark -- things are going poorly because we don’t have enough bread.

Jesus responds to the disciples something like this (with a bit of interpretation): Friends, don’t you get it? Times are changing. It isn’t all about the bread. Can you see that these miracles of feeding and restoration are symbols of God’s abundance? We are entering into a new age, where life isn’t just about living by all of the laws. Rather, we are invited into compassion and connection. We are invited into the life of being servants of our Lord God.

The Pharisees, scholars of Hebrew scripture, couldn’t see or believe Jesus’ message and ministry, so they tested him relentlessly. The disciples had front-row seats to his ministry, and they did not get it either. Yet, Jesus remained faithful to his friends and continued teaching them. Jesus is faithful to us, too. He has walked through times of uncertainty, and he is still our companion along the way.

-- Katherine+

Questions for Reflection

  • The Pharisees demand a sign from heaven as they question Jesus. Have you ever flipped through the Bible just hoping to find a sign -- God’s word meant just for you? What did you find? How was your spirit affected by this experience?

  • The apostle Paul speaks to different spiritual gifts, each grounded in God. As you look down the list (1 Cor 12:4-11), what is a gift you have that is God-given?

Daily Challenge

  • Jesus references two separate feeding miracles today, pointing to the nourishment and abundance that comes from God’s love. Take a photograph or find an image that represents abundance that emanates from God’s love. Share it with someone you care about.

Katherine Harper