God's provision

Mark 8 : 14 - 21

Do you not yet perceive or understand?

With only one loaf, it is understandable that the disciples were worried. The same story is lived out in various ways.....with only one income, with only these meagre funds, with only this limited ability....we are anxious. We see what is lacking in our circumstances and we fear.

Jesus warns his disciples and us not to be influenced by the 'leaven' of the Pharisees and the 'leaven' of Herod. He was probably referring to the worldview of these people - one that trusted in themselves rather than in God. Jesus reminds us that he can provide, if we trust, however little we have. "Do you not remember?" "Do you not yet understand?"

It might well be a question he asks us when we face the uncertainties of life. There is something beyond the limitations we hold in our hands. He is the one who provides way beyond our needs even. Perhaps we should always pray for eyes that see and ears that hear these truths. It is easy to be drawn into the worldview of the Pharisees and Herod - those with unbelieving hearts, who trust in their own resources. Lord we pray that our hearts may be softened as we perceive your reality.