Mark Chapter 8

Jesus feeding of the four thousand has many comparisons with the story of the feeding of the five thousand earlier in the gospel. Jesus takes meager supplies and feeds a multitude. It is a miracle however the result was achieved. What is particularly telling is how the story ends with Jesus preparing to leave and being approached by Pharisees. They want a sign to show that he is indeed the Messiah. Jesus refuses because he knows it will make know difference. Why seek a sign after all the healing miracles, the feeding miracles and so on. Those with the eyes of faith, who are open to work that God is doing would see the signs already surely. Another sign would make no difference.

Jesus heals a blind man. Once more the healing miracle is successful. Jesus warns him not to enter the village. Is this yet another attempt by Jesus to keep the matter private? Is this another way of denying an easy way out to faith? Is it still essential that each person should confront the question : 'Who is Jesus to me?'

'Who is Jesus?' this question has been a theme of the gospel from the beginning. Jesus asks his disciples who people are saying he is. They reply that he is John the Baptist, Elijah or one of the prophets. These are all forerunners of the Messiah in Jewish thinking. Then we have the critical question addressed to the disciples. Who do they think that Jesus is? So he asks.

Peter is the one who responds. 'You are the Messiah' he says. This is a high point. Jesus is recognised as the promised saviour of the people of God. Jesus warns them not to tell anyone else.

He does go on to explain what this 'Messiah' will be and what he will endure. He will be arrested, beaten, crucified and three days later will rise from the dead. Peter cannot bear it. He says that this cannot be allowed, it must be stopped. Jesus turns and says 'get behind me Satan'. Poor Peter goes from hero to villain in an instant. This is a tough lesson learning that Jesus has to die as part of God's plan.

Jesus goes further. To follow him means sacrifice. You have to symbolically take up your cross and follow Jesus. That means setting aside the selfish desires of ourselves to serve God and one another. These are tough lessons. The investing of all of ourselves, our whole life for God is required of us. There can be no turning back.