The previous day, Jesus had fed a crowd of five thousand people. Now, they came looking for him again. Figuring the only possible place he could have gone was across the lake; they hired a boat to get there. Why were they so persistent in looking for Jesus? What did they want? Another free meal? To witness another of his marvellous deeds? Something had attracted them to him, and they were
prepared to go to great lengths to find him.
Why do we look for Jesus?
There are several reasons we find ourselves searching for Jesus. We may have seen how Jesus has provided for us or someone we know. Maybe we heard something in the Gospel that touched our hearts. Sometimes, we cannot clearly articulate why we want to find Jesus. We just do. When we seek Jesus, we find him. Jesus is not elusive. When we
find Jesus, we wonder why we have not seen Jesus here before. The truth is, Jesus is always right here in our midst. Our vision becomes clearer, our heart begins to yearn, and our need leads us to seek him. Where our conversation with Jesus will lead will depend on our openness to receive and respond to what Jesus is offering to us.
Are you searching for Jesus?
Find a
quiet place to meet with Jesus. Become aware of what is occupying your mind and heart, and imagine setting all these things in a basket to examine with Jesus.
When you are ready, invite Jesus to reveal himself and be present. Tell Jesus why you are looking for him. Place your basket before Jesus, too.
Be still for a moment, and then end your prayer. Reflect on
the experience.
Was there a thought, a feeling or an interaction with Jesus? Try this repeatedly this week, and notice how Jesus may be meeting you.
Reflections by Cherie-Lynn
van der Merwe
