The Hard Heart of a Disciple


Mark 8:14–17 (ESV) Now they had forgotten to bring bread, and they had only one loaf with them in the boat. 15 And he cautioned them, saying, “Watch out; beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.” 16 And they began discussing with one another the fact that they had no bread. 17 And Jesus, aware of this, said to them, “Why are you discussing the fact that you have no bread? Do you not yet perceive or understand? Are your hearts hardened?

The funny thing about this passage is that it falls on the heals of Jesus feeding 5000 men with a few loaves of bread.  How could Jesus possibly be concerned that the disciples didn't bring bread?  He's trying to teach them about what's really important, and they are worrying about having enough to eat.

What's really important is to watch out for those who want to look important but really don't care about people.  The Pharisees demand a sign just after Jesus fed the multitudes.  They aren't getting it because they don't want to get it.  Watch out for people like that.  They will waste your life.  Move with Jesus, get in the boat, go to the other side!

But the disciples evidently felt they had failed Jesus by not bringing enough bread on the boat.  

We do that.  We think God won't provide for us at certain places.  Like, "I know Jesus can feed thousands on land, but this is the middle of the Sea, now we are in trouble."  

I can hear the argument of the disciples, "Oh we really blew it now.  The Pharisees demanded a sign and now we don't have any bread and we may need to have a sign, Jesus is going to be frustrated with us."

Or we think, "I know God loves me and forgives me but this was really bad."
Or we say, "Of course I'm God's child, I just better not screw it up."  
Or we think, "Yes, I'm called to serve others, I just need to make sure I am able to do it first."

Jesus is wondering why we are so thick!  He can do anything through anyone, at any time, anywhere!  Stop worrying.  He'll take care of the needs... you listen, you follow, you put yourself in a place to receive His Words of life. 

Don't let your heart grow hard.  Jesus loves and cares for you.  And he will watch over you.  GO!

PRAYER:
Father, I know there are places in my heart that I feel responsible to earn your love, or to hold up my "end of the bargain" for things to go well for me.  Forgive me for that.  You are my source.  You are my Lord.  You are everything.  I trust you.  Here and now.  I ask that the eyes of my heart be opened to truly see just how great is your care for me.  Then, help me to act on it.  For faith pleases you.  AMEN!

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