John 6:1-2 After these things, Jesus went away to the other side of the Sea of Galilee (or Tiberias). A large crowd followed Him, because they saw the signs which He was performing on those who were sick.
As we continue our study in the book of John and enter into chapter 6, we notice there’s a change of context, but let’s not miss John’s overall purpose in writing this gospel account. He wrote these things, so his readers might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing they might have life in His name (John 20:31). There is a change of location for Jesus in this chapter, but it’s not a long distance, perhaps less than five miles. Bethsaida is located on the northeast of the Sea of Galilee, home to Peter, Andrew, and Phillip. The area was a grassy area and apparently a good place for Jesus and His disciples to “get away.” However, they were unsuccessful. A large crowd from Capernaum walked the four or five miles to find Him because of the signs which they had seen Him do.
I’m encouraged by this from these verses. The Father led Jesus to this place to set the stage for another display of His glory, the miraculous feeding of 15,000 people, counting women and children. We can be encouraged by this great reality. Our Father is always going before us, setting the stage for Jesus to display His glory. As we live to love with Jesus, we have confidence that nothing is random. Where we go today is necessary for what God wants to do through His Son in our lives. Who we meet is also arranged by the Father. Why they are in our paths may depend on a thousand small acts of God, both passive and active.
Let’s thank God, our Father, for going ahead of us today. “Father, thank You for guiding our paths and for orchestrating the circumstances and encounters we have today with people. Prepare us for loving with Jesus by keeping us abiding in Him and being filled with the Holy Spirit. Give us faith to trust You as things happen today, and keep us mindful that You are at work and desire to bear fruit in our lives through Your Son, Jesus. We love you, and consider it a privilege to be called and empowered to live to love with You and Him. Magnify Your name in us today. Amen.
I invite you to become a partner in our ministry. Would you pray about becoming a regular supporter of Elijah Ministries and the Live to Love with Jesus ministry? I hope you will receive the joy and benefit of "giving it forward," so others may receive encouragement to turn their hearts to God and to live to love with Jesus. You may give online or send a check to the address listed at www.spiritofelijah.com/donate.
