Day 289

Galilean Ministry cont.

9. At Capernaum, cont.

- Reception at Gennesaret - Matthew 14:34-36; Mark 6:53-56

- Discourse on bread of life (D-6) - John 6:22-71

- Hypocrisy of Scribes and Pharisees (unwashed hands) (D-7) - Matthew 15:1-20; Mark 7:1-23

<><><><>><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
I was pondering on this verse:
John 6:26 - Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek me not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled.


How easy it is to be caught up in the physical needs of life and miss the true Bread of Life.


O Father, help us to trust in You to provide those daily provisions which we need as humans to function - but Lord, even greater, help us to see our need for the Bread of Life and the Living Water - to desire a deeper and more intimate relationship with our Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus.


Another one:
John 6:64 - '...Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him.'


Beginning -  from the commentaries I consulted (Gill, Poole, Wesley) that the beginning means the start of HIS ministry.  The relevant point for me is HE knew.  He walked, talked, slept, sent out the traitor.  He treated Judas exactly like the others.  There was nothing in Jesus' behavior which would have indicated to anyone that HE knew.


Gives new meaning to the passage about loving our enemies and doing well to those who despitefully use us.


Luk 6:27  But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,


Mat 5:44  But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; 


Father, help us to pray for those who desire to harm or hurt Your children, knowing that You are ultimately in control and will bring about Your good purposes for any who desire to harm or persecute us.  That You Lord, in Your sovereignty will strength, sustain and support us through the midst of any and all trials, tribulations and testings.


To God be all the glory, honor and praise!  Thank you Jesus!