TEACH AND INSPIRE (07-24-13)

John 6:3

Jesus went up on the mountain, and there he sat down with his disciples. 

Jesus is a great Teacher.  All through His public life, he must have preached and taught people everyday – in their houses, in the market, in the public parks, in the sea and in the mountains.  He never ceased teaching people about the promises of God and how man’s salvation is at hand. 

In today’s gospel, prior to performing the miracles of multiplication of the bread, He did three things:  He went up the mountain, He sat down and He began to teach. 

First, He went up the mountain so more people can see and hear Him.  The Gospel writers tell us of many times when Jesus withdrew to the wilderness, into a desert place or up on a mountain.  In his life, He always go to a mountain to pray so He may talk to the Father in total silence – one on one in prayer.  And as He teaches, he wants people to see Him as an authority when it comes to teaching about God.

But, out of humility, He still wants the people to feel Him and His sincerity in teaching them about God.  He sits down so people can still relate with Him – knowing that He is still at the same level with them.  For he came not to be served but to serve.  And when seated, he would be at the same eye level with most of the people – so He can look them straight in the eyes, so they may feel and truly understand what He is preaching.

Finally, He does what He does best – He teach.  Sharing everything from His heart so we may learn.  But He doesn’t want us to remain in the mountain with Him.  Those who go the mountain to be with God are called back into the life of the community as servants.  Where there are hills, there are also valleys.  We are called back into community life.  That is what it is all about after all - to be inspired by the high experience and get back to the valley for sharing what we have learned so others may learn the same.

Almighty Father, permit me to teach only the truth.  Help me to inspire others so that learning will not cease at the top of the mountain.  And, Lord, let me bring them to You.  Teach them through me to love You.  Finally, permit me to learn the lessons they teach in return.  Amen +

The hand of the Lord feeds us; he answers all our needs.