It strikes me how the people recognised “them” and ran ahead to reach the destination before they did.
What did the people recognise? Was it the physical appearance of Jesus and the disciples or their demeanour? What motivated the people to run ahead to meet the boat's occupants?
We know that Jesus and the disciples have been teaching. Jesus has been performing miracles and preparing the disciples for their mission. These crowds were hungry for more. They wanted more contact with Jesus, more time to listen, and more time to be with him. Jesus’ spiritual compassion comes to the fore, and so Jesus attends to this need of the people.
We are called to be Christ-like and for others to see and experience Jesus
in and through us. The disciples attracted this group of people through their work and Christ-like behaviour. Could we say that groups of people have been attracted to us in this way to hear more about our experiences of Jesus? Are they waiting for our arrival at places we are yet to reach? Do others recognise Jesus in us?
Take time to reflect on your spiritual appearance. How can your demeanour be more Christ-like?
Reflections by Gillian Hugo
