Sometimes I face a dilemma and I have absolutely no idea how I can find a solution. I am sure Jesus’s disciples felt the same way when they were asked by Jesus to feed five thousand people. Furthermore, Andrew one of Jesus’ disciples pointed out the futility that the only food they had was five barley loaves and two fish. Saying, “but what are they among so many people.”

Nevertheless Jesus responded, “Make the people sit down.”

I have always wondered probably like the disciples when faced with the enormity of the task why he didn’t send them home to eat and reflect on his words and he would continue the teaching tomorrow. However I would argue that the real teaching comes from Jesus’ actions.

Jesus doesn’t panic because he knows that he has the power to offer the solution. Additionally he doesn’t rebuke the disciples for their lack of faith but remains focused on solving the problem. Hence he is not only working on feeding the crowd but also not alienating the apostles with a few cross words.

I wonder how many times I get flustered when face with a difficult task. Moreover how easy is it to lash out at others because you’re frustrated at the problem that has no easy answers? So I need to be level headed and not become irritated and affect my relationships with others along the way.

Hence, Jesus doesn’t worry about the logistics of providing food for five thousand people he just gets on with the task putting his faith in God to give sustenance to the masses.

In this weeks Gospel, Mark 6:1-6 Jesus says, “Prophets are not without honour, except in their hometown and among their own kin, and in their own house.”

I often reflect that many times in life things don’ t turn out the way we hoped. For Jesus I wonder if he would have returned to his hometown if he knew he was going to be ridiculed and his work ineffectual.

For me I have to do what I need to do in my life to achieve the things I want to achieve. Sometimes I may fail and sometimes I may never be successful in what I want to accomplish. However I never want to die wondering because ultimately I will regret not trying. Furthermore that despite the outcome I need to accept the end result without reservation.

So what motivates people to attempt different things?

I believe support from others drives people to take risks because they know the same people will be there when they fail. Furthermore they encourage you to take the same possibilities again.

Another motivating factor is a willingness to try and do something different. It may take you out of your comfort zone but it helps you acknowledge just where you stand in your relationships with other people.

Additionally, not being fearful of failure will assist in influencing the decisions we make in the future. Thus not being concerned about what other people think.

Finally, I must acknowledge without excuses or blame the end result. Like Jesus accepting the rejection of his hometown I must not want retribution or react with anger but dust the sand off my feet and move on to the next challenge no matter the disappointment. No third umpire because my conscience says for me to do God’s will not my will. So I must look forward never look back as this is the only way to be effective and able to face the next opportunity.