Opportunities and Blessings Along the Way

In the Gospel of Mark, chapter 6, the disciples are returning after being sent out on their own for the first time. They had been out preaching, teaching, healing the sick—going from town to town. When they came back to Jesus to report all they had done and seen, he said to them, “Come away to a deserted place by yourselves and rest a while…”

It is important to do that—for all of us. In today’s world, we tend to go and go and go. Sometimes that busyness can make us feel disconnected from others, and even from God. We clearly see in Jesus’ own ministry that he set a pattern: even when the need was overwhelming, he would still find time to break away and be alone.

But not in this passage.

When they arrive at their retreat, there’s a huge crowd already waiting. Mark tells us that Jesus had compassion for them, and he began to teach them. Later that same day, he feeds the 5,000!

The disciples had been running and running, and just when they thought they were finally breaking away—just when they thought they were going to get a moment’s reprieve—there’s a major interruption in the plans.

I’ve often wondered why Jesus didn’t follow his usual pattern here and slip through the crowds. Or why he didn’t take the disciples to a more desolate spot. He knew they needed a break.

The only reason I can think of is that sometimes interruptions can actually be blessings in disguise. Sometimes interruptions can actually be openings for new beginnings. Sometimes interruptions are opportunities.

Maybe Jesus knew this was something the disciples needed to learn. Maybe Jesus knows… it’s something I’m still trying to learn.

Let us pray:  Gracious God, help us to set time apart—to recharge, reenergize, and allow space for you in our lives. But may you also keep us open to the opportunities and blessings of the interruptions along the way. Meet us this day along our journey. Surprise us with your grace. And use us as instruments of your love. Amen.