As you picture your walk with Jesus, do relate to those in the fringe of the crowds that followed Him or do you relate to those who worked their way next to Him? It can take some effort to move through the crowd and once there you are very conscious that He will see you, with all your blemishes. It can be comfortable to remain in the outer orbit where you sense the excitement that others are experiencing from direct interaction while guarding against becoming uncomfortably close. But when we remain in the outer areas we miss the chance to make eye contact with Jesus. There is no amplification in this crowd and it may be impossible to hear His words precisely. We continue to carry sin burdens and concerns that He would lift. You begin to see the joy and radiance that others reflect as they return from being at His side and you realize that you must draw near. You decide to risk whatever may come from falling directly under His gaze and you gently shoulder your way to the center with a sense of anticipation. As you find Him sitting on a large rock you discover a warmth and a tenderness that seem to draw you in and as He speaks and as He locks eyes with yours, you are changed. You are glad that He knows you and you wonder why you ever hesitated to draw near. You become motivated to bring your loved ones into this inner place.
Matthew 9:36When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.
Mark 5:27When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, 28because she thought, "If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed."
blessings,
Rob Smith
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