How would you feel if your cousin was beheaded and the head placed on a platter for public ridicule? The death of John the Baptist must have affected Jesus in a similar way. He seeks solitude in a silent place … no such thing. The crowds are so excited about Jesus and the miracles that they track him down by the thousands.

The chapter is marked with strong changes. The multiplication of the five loaves and the two fish deeply moves the crowd, not to mention the disciples. I remember a retreat director during my seminary years suggesting that while the disciples were gathering the leftovers into the twelve baskets, they instigated the crowd, starting the chant: “Make him king! Make him king!” Jesus would have none of it. He dismisses the crowd and sends the disciples into a boat. Jesus seeks quiet, this time on a mountain. Then see what happens! Expect silence to birth your miracle as you seek solitude and surrender to Jesus.

Matthew 14

Create your own Bible Breaths Learn More…
Example: Withdrawing to be with You v. 13

Fridays are dedicated to the Gospels.
In the season of Pentecost this year we read Matthew 8 to 18.

For all the Firestarters I recommend the ebook.  You will have the entire program of well over a thousand of these introductions with you on your phone or tablet. Check the menu options at the site for more information.