Daily Bread 5-12-16
Matthew 14:22,23
22 And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away.
23 And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into the mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone.
ref. - Mk 6:46 - And when he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray.
Lk 6:12 - And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.
Jn 6:16 - And when even was now come, his disciples went down unto the sea.
Today we look at the example of Jesus. We are always thinking and looking at great examples in the bible and Jesus is the best. When he had a concern, when had a problem, or even when he had a great day, he never forgot to stop and talk to God. In this instance he was about to go out walking on the sea and show his disciples yet another miracle that would strengthen their faith. But once he had done his work, feeding five thousand men, plus women and children, on five loaves and two fishes, he got his men in to the boat and he separated himself from them and went to pray. So often we forget that the best and most important communication that we get with God is when we separate ourselves from outside noise and distraction and speak to him in private. No, it is not wrong to pray in public or in Church or anywhere for that matter, but never get too busy to take a moment, whenever we can, to give thanks to God and invite him with us as we go about our day. If we are thankful for what he has done, let us thank him, and we will soon be able to be witness or even take part in another miracle. You see, the miracle was not the fact that Jesus walked on the water out to the ship. He could do anything. The miracle was that Peter had enough faith to call on him and say, "Save me" when he took his eyes off of Jesus and began to sink into the water. The miracle was that he called Peter out into the water and was able to make him do the same things that He was doing. You see a miracle is not a miracle unless there is a recipient. And Jesus knew that if God was going to continue providing him with the power and the strength to perform these great things he needed to stay in communication with him. So, today, if you have witnessed God do great and mighty things and maybe even been privileged enough to take part in them, go to a private place and give him all the honor and glory he deserves. Ask him to guide your path, and the miracles that you saw yesterday will be turned into the miracles that you see today!! But remember this, Siempre Orad!! Always Pray!!! Have a great day!!!