Reading this passage on its own without context can leave us puzzled. Jesus comes across as uncharacteristically forceful. However,
digging into the passage, we find that Jesus saves the disciples from being sucked into a very uncomfortable position. The crowd are becoming very excited, wanting to make Jesus their king by force. The disciples were exceedingly faithful to Jesus and might have been caught up in the moment's emotion.
Parents are sometimes forceful with their children when they know they are likely to be hurt in some way. Perhaps you have shouted at your toddler, “Get away from that pool!” Maybe you have firmly told your teenager they may not attend a party because it’s the weekend before final exams. Your decision is not based on
selfish prejudice; it is made out of love. You want to save them from being hurt or from regretting their decision later.
We are told Jesus dismissed
the crowd but are not told how. The writer probably didn’t know. I would guess he reasoned with them, calmed them down or showed his love in a way that moved them to see more of the truth of Jesus' real mission.
As a parent, you may place a net over the pool or close the gate to that area. Perhaps you would sit patiently, helping your child understand their maths equations or science theorems. Love shows itself in words and deeds.
When has someone been firm with you over your actions, leaving you surprised? Did it make sense for you on reflection as to why they chose to be firm?
How have you followed up on your need to be firm over something?
How aware are you of situations into which your loved ones may have been unnecessarily
drawn? How do you deal with it?
Reflections by
Cherie-Lynn van der Merwe
