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John describes the miracle of Jesus feeding a large group of followers. John indicated 5,000 men. We don’t know how many women or children were present. I suspect there might be some exaggeration here.

Although Jesus knew what he was going to do, he still asks Philip to give an opinion of what could be done. It is a great teaching tool where the teacher highlights the student’s understanding before the teaching.

John is making an important point that I want to draw your attention to in this reflection. The point has to do with ones perspective of what Jesus can and will do in our lives. Our perspectives can either enhance or inhibit the course of our lives.

Are we open to allow God to surprise us? When an event or situation does not turn out the way we wanted or expected are we willing to hold back judgement and explore what God could be directing us to do. Are we open to change and to broaden our perspective of God and His role in our life?

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In Today’s Gospel from Mark, we learn that the apostles had returned from some mission activity and are updating Jesus on their experiences. What is immediately noteworthy is that Jesus’ first response is an invitation to get away and rest.

It seems to me that Jesus is talking about the value of rest. Jesus is a head of his time. Psychologists and other mental health professionals are increasingly recognizing the need for rest to prevent burnout. More and more I hear about Compassion fatigue, a component of burnout. Compassion fatigue is the cost of caring for others or for being exposed to their emotional pain.

It is important to recognize the signs of burnout and Compassion Fatigue.

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Jesus is sending his disciples to gain some missionary experiences. The first thing is that Jesus sends the disciples out two by two. I thought Jesus could have doubled his impact by sending them out alone. It becomes clear that Jesus is not concerned with numbers. He is making several teaching points about spirituality and faith that are helpful in deepening our faith. Jesus is making it clear that they are not to have anything to slow them down or get in the way.