The disciples have returned from preaching and healing around the villages; in the face of people’s need, they have barely had time to eat. So Jesus invites them to come away to a deserted place and rest awhile. Yet the crowd guesses where they’re going, and meets them there. When Jesus sees the mob, his guts wrench with compassion, and he begins to teach and heal once more …

A reflection on Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 given to Sanctuary, 22 July 2018 (Year B Proper 11, BP11).