July 2024
Nougat 25
Often, we operate as ‘Lone Strangers’, giving the impression that Jesus is an unknown entity in our lives. But, Today’s Holy Nougat
“But Jesus knew what they were planning. So he left that area, and many people followed him. He healed all the sick among them,” Matthew 12:15 NLT
Jesus Left the Area
The phrase, ‘Elvis has left the building’, was coined during Elvis concerts. Though initially used to encourage a group of terms to remain for another concert about to begin, it was later used to disperse the crowds. ‘Elvis has left the building. Thank you, and goodnight.’ It wasn’t uncommon for fans to check that Elvis had genuinely left the theatre. Some actually would try to laywait him for autographs, novelty (locks of hair if possible), as well as photos. They were most likely a devoted fan club.
I’m not suggesting that Jesus is like Elvis Presley. Far from it. Elvis would do well to have learned everything he could from Jesus. But, the way in which the crowd found and followed Jesus brought the imagery to mind. ‘Ladies and gentlemen, Jesus has left the building. Thank you and travel safe.’ But it didn’t work as well in Jesus’ day,
The crowds followed Jesus from one point to the other, even preempting Him once. But then, Jesus was not in stage. What He did was not intended as entertainment either. People were following Jesus for the teaching, the sermons, the signs, the healing, the resurrections and even the free food. Because their motives were different they had no issue with racing from point A to Z in pursuit of Jesus.
Sometimes, accompaniment involves pursuing Jesus on behalf of others. Like the four friends who sought Jesus through the roof on behalf of the paralysed man (see Mark 2). Like the persistent mother on behalf of her sick daughter. For her, Jesus hadn’t physically left the building, but being called a dog was tantamount to being dismissed. It didn’t matter, they persisted.
Are we among those pursuing Jesus when He has left the building?
Then there are those others … like the Pharisees, whose motives were rather different. They sought Jesus to kill Him. For them, Jesus’ actions were in complete violation of the Law. He healed on the Sabbath, He sometimes spoke ill of them, and He suggested that He’s the long awaited Messiah. It was challenging for them to receive. They wanted to eliminate the problem, which they determined to be Jesus.
Jesus, knowing His mission was not ended, left the area. Siblings, there are times when we have to discern what a situation truly is, and we have to make our exit.
Immediately.
With limited or no explanation.
Those whom we’re supposed to minister to, or accompany will understand and follow as necessary.
Are we attuned to what is happening around us, to discern the times and walk away if needed?
What time is it now?
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May all we seek be found in Christ