Return to Jesus

Today’s Gospel: The apostles returned to Jesus, and told him all that they had done and taught. 31 And he said to them, "Come away by yourselves to a lonely place, and rest a while." For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. 32 And they went away in the boat to a lonely place by themselves. 33 Now many saw them going, and knew them, and they ran there on foot from all the towns, and got there ahead of them. 34 As he went ashore he saw a great throng, and he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things.  Mark 6:30-34

Reflection:  They did many things and taught the people what they had learnt from the master and under his directives.  From their exuberance it is evident that they may have performed mighty signs and wonders and people themselves may have found their teachings authoritative. From the subsequent action of Jesus it seems that the apostles had overworked themselves to the point of exhaustion.  Such is the nature of the power of laboring for the kingdom.  Looks like they were still not tired and wanted share all that they did in his name.

What is it that could have prevented the Apostle not to return to Jesus? They were powerful without his physical presence with them. They were already with him and had learnt many things and now they were abundantly equipped to span on their own.  What did he offer them when they came back, except for a call to come away by themselves to a lonely place and even that did not succeed?

It is not the ministry of the Lord that is important but the Lord of the ministry whom one must return and render an account constantly.  “…… Apart from me you can do nothing” (Jn. 15:5)

Prayer:  Lord, you have taught me the path of humility by asking me to return and trust in you in all things and I am grateful.

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