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Most loving relationships do experience the ebb and flow of relationships. Relationships go through periods of intensity and periods of distance. People sometimes like being close and other times they need their space. Its clear that God respects our space, but we can clearly see he is the pursuer in this relationship. Some people may feel God is distant, not involved much in his creation. I agree that may be how we feel but is it accurate? Just because God does not behave in the way we want or expect does not mean he is not present or caring. I urge you to spend some time reflecting on what God must do to get your attention.

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In the Gospel, we are told that the people have found Jesus after having searched for him for awhile. Jesus challenges them to look at their reasons for following him. Ideally Jesus probably wished they were following him because they wanted to learn more in order to deepen their faith. Jesus realizes however, that most people are searching for him because they want to see miracles and/or obtain free food rather than to obtain spiritual wisdom. This situation does not appear to upset Jesus; and being the teacher that he is, transforms the situation into a teachable moment.

Perhaps Jesus is pointing out to the people that if they want a sign they ought to look at themselves and note the times God was present in their actions, challenges and even failures.

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John describes the miracle of Jesus feeding a large group of followers. John indicated 5,000 men. We don’t know how many women or children were present. I suspect there might be some exaggeration here.

Although Jesus knew what he was going to do, he still asks Philip to give an opinion of what could be done. It is a great teaching tool where the teacher highlights the student’s understanding before the teaching.

John is making an important point that I want to draw your attention to in this reflection. The point has to do with ones perspective of what Jesus can and will do in our lives. Our perspectives can either enhance or inhibit the course of our lives.

Are we open to allow God to surprise us? When an event or situation does not turn out the way we wanted or expected are we willing to hold back judgement and explore what God could be directing us to do. Are we open to change and to broaden our perspective of God and His role in our life?