Jesus gave thanks

"Then Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks,
and distributed them to those who were reclining,
and also as much of the fish as they wanted." (John 6:10-11)

Reflection: So often we are troubled by questions like "How will I make it?" or "What will I do?"
These questions confronted Jesus when it came time to feed a large crowd of hungry people. We are that crowd, and Jesus shows us how to receive all that we want. Give thanks.

Once we recognize where our blessings come from, and what we did to deserve them all ... more comes. Freely. Let us recline (relax) and not worry so much about what WE have to do, but rest assured that God will grant to us all we need and all we want.

As we wait for waht we need, we give good thanks (in Greek: "Eu Charistia" "good graces")

Jesus summoned the Twelve.

"Jesus summoned the Twelve and began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over unclean spirits." (Mark 6:1)

Reflection: The authority of Jesus appears to us as community. Family, church, and social fabric. The number twelve represents a community of leadership and the unity of the disicples. The numbers "two by two" symbolize our need for each other. No one follows Jesus alone, and no one is saved alone.

Expelling unclean spirits is a community effort.

Jesus was not able

"So Jesus was not able to perform any mighty deed there, apart from curing a few sick people by laying his hands on them. He was amazed at their lack of faith." (Mark 6:6)

Reflection: It's hard to imagine Jesus as incapable or powerless. But that reveals how much power he gets from cooperation with us. He doesn't want to act or live alone (who does?).

Until we believe (in faith) that we are always connected to Him and acting with Him, he just stands by in amazement at how long it takes for us to see Him (and trust His work).