Gospel: Matthew 14: 13-21
The Gospel of Matthew provides us with an important context for the miracle of the multiplication of the loaves and fishes. Today's Gospel portion notes that upon hearing of the death of John the Baptist, Jesus suddenly gets a large crowd following him - the followers of John. They are in need of a new leader, a shepherd to guide them now that John has passed. John's followers were indeed many. From John they had experienced repentance and the washing away of sin, but they desired more.
Jesus finds them and sees that many are in need of healing, so he provides healing. As they follow him into a deserted place, he provides them with food. Their moment of repentance and desire to change is now continually sustained with ongoing healing and nourishment from Jesus. What is more, they are now invited to extend that mercy of healing and nourishing to others.
Our own lives have this same three-fold experience. We have our moment of repentance and turning away from sin; we are washed and forgiven. We also recognize the need for ongoing healing and nourishment in our lives that we receive from the Lord Jesus. We are also invited to participate in this ministry - to be the healing of God on earth as Jesus was. What begins with John is completed in Jesus.
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