10When the apostles returned, they told Jesus everything they had done. Then he slipped quietly away with them toward the town of Bethsaida. 11But the crowds found out where he was going, and they followed him. He welcomed them and taught them about the Kingdom of God, and he healed those who were sick.
Jesus obviously was not trying to attract this crowd. His disciples had been on their first mission adventure and he “slipped away” in hopes of being alone with them for a little bit. It didn’t work out. I’m honestly not sure how Jesus, the God-Man, creator of the universe, makes plans that don’t work out, but I’ll just assume that is part of being human that even Jesus couldn’t get away from.
But that might be exactly where the lesson lies for us! It is part of our humanity, or perhaps part of being made in God’s image, that our plans don’t work out. It seems especially true when other people are involved. So when Jesus’ plans crumble, what does he do? Jesus welcomes them, and teaches them, and heals them.
Holy Spirit, enlighten and enliven me so that when my plans crumble because you have a better plan, I take the time to welcome, and teach, and heal – through your power and grace, those you send to interrupt my plans.
You need not look far.
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