As we reflected on the story of Jesus feeding the 5000, what struck you about this familiar story? Was it the compassion of Jesus (noted in the version of the story found in Mark 6)? Was it the boy’s faith versus the disciple’s (Philip) response? Was it how Jesus hinted at the coming institution of the Lord’s Supper with the words, ‘took, gave thanks (eucharisto), and gave’? Was it Jesus withdrawing from the crowds while he reached the pinnacle of his popularity?

As he did with Nicodemus and the Samaritan woman, Jesus took something concrete and drew our attention to the spiritual reality. In his explanation of the feeding miracle, Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty” (6:35). Jesus then foreshadowed his own death, “This bread is my flesh (body) which I will give for the life of the world” (6:51). With intentional provocative language, Jesus then pointed to the practice of the Lord Supper in which we partake of the body and drink of the cup. As Jesus revealed the kind of King that He will be - a humble, sacrificial, servant King; the crowds at the beginning of the chapter dwindled to just a few. Where do you see yourself in this story?

Peace and grace, John

This weekend, we had the opportunity to interact with Dr. Diane Stinton, Professor of Missions Studies at Regent College. On Friday night, we watched the film, Between a Shoe and the Roof, a documentary of a group of international students from Regent College as they traveled to Kenya to interact and learn from African Christians. GoGlobal is Dr. Stinton’s initiative in which she takes groups of students to learn world Christianity in different parts of the world. It was insightful to hear the reflections of the students as they wrestle with how Christians around the world clarify and add to their understanding of the Gospel. The documentary was punctuated with short and thought-provoking snippets of African theologians and pastors. Overall, a very thought provoking film!

There are many important themes in the well-known story of Nicodemus. A sincere, influential, and religious leader came to meet Jesus by night discreetly. Nicodemus had tremendous respect for Jesus, recognizing that he taught and performed signs with the authority and presence of God. Jesus explained to Nicodemus the need to undergo a new birth by the Spirit. Nicodemus was confused by Jesus and fades into the background of the story. For the time being at least, we are left wondering which way Nicodemus decided.