Never Too Busy


Matthew 14:34-36
34And when they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret.
35And when the men of that place recognized him, they sent around to all that region and brought to him all who were sick
36and implored him that they might only touch the fringe of his garment. And as many as touched it were made well.

Three simple verses for today. They come at the end of a long series of miracles and parables that are meant to further define both Jesus and His Kingdom here on earth. By this point in the story of Jesus ministry His fame has spread and people want to receive what He has to offer – at least in terms of their immediate needs. And offer it freely He does. All they need to do is touch the hem of His garment and they are healed of their sickness. And because He is our compassionate Lord He allows this to happen over and over again.

But Jesus also knew how to walk with balance. This is something we have lost in our lives. He knew when to withdraw from the crowds and have a moment alone with the Father. He also knew when to be fully engaged with the people and compassionately give them what they needed. We are quick to be engaged and tend toward frantically running all around in order to meet everyone’s needs but we haven’t learned (in many cases) to take the time to withdraw and spend that revitalizing time with the Father. It’s not healthy and it’s not God’s way. Thus we become distracted and worn. Stress levels run at an all-time high and the joy of serving others is lost in the busyness of it all.



I realize this advice is easily given and tough to follow. Even as I type the words I am aware of the fact that I need to be hearing this message not delivering it! All of us know what it means to live in this world of cultural overload. Too many stimulations coming at us all at once can be crazy making. And frankly, learning to experience a little quiet is a great deal of work (at least it is for me). There’s where Jesus has it all over us. He didn’t have to learn how to spend time with the Father. He was drawn to it and practiced it often. Then when the crowds gathered around Him to touch His hem, He was ready for it. Maybe it’s time to stop typing and start listening!

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