1 After this, Jesus crossed to the other side of the Sea of Galilee…

2 A large crowd followed Him because they saw the signs He was performing on the sick.

— John 6:1-2

30 The apostles returned to Jesus and told Him all that they had done and taught.

31 And He said to them, “Come with Me privately to a solitary place, and let us rest for a while.” For many people were coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat.

32 So they went away in a boat by themselves to a solitary place.

33 Now many saw them going and recognized them, and they ran there on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them.

34 When Jesus stepped ashore and saw a large crowd, He had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. And He began to teach them many things.

— Mark 6:30-34

Thoughts on Today’s Reading

Grace and joy from Christ to you.

In his gospel, John focuses on Jesus’ power over creation and His compassion for human needs. One time after Jesus performed many signs/miracles, He and His disciples crossed the Sea of Galilee to the other side and went up on a mountainside. News spread quickly among the people. Many chasing after Jesus were sick and hoping to receive healing. They eagerly ran on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of Jesus. The weight of deep compassion alongside the constant press of the gathering crowds and the news of John the Baptist’s death surely left Jesus and His disciples tired and weary.

Despite His weariness, Jesus felt profound compassion for the approaching people. The weight of their burdens, their lack of true shepherds, and their persistence in seeking Him moved Jesus to action. Jesus knew only He could give them what they needed most. Always in tune with His Father’s heart, Jesus laid aside His own desire for solitude to meet the needs of the desperate and distressed. He came not to be served, but to serve, and save people for accomplishing God’s eternal plan.