Day 4 – Send

“Immediately after this, Jesus insisted that his disciples get back into the boat and cross to the other side of the lake, while he sent the people home.” Matthew 14:22 NLT

Immediately after this great miracle, Jesus insisted that the apostles get in a boat and head to Bethsaida. I found this interesting, cause that very day, they just return from a long, paired-up missionary trip. They must have been bursting out the seems to tell Jesus everything they did and experienced. This would not have been a “how was your trip?” with a “it was fine” answer. I am sure each apostle wanted to give a detailed account and listening to 12 detailed accounts would not be a 5-minute discussion. But Jesus sent them out again to the next destination, not because He did not want them with Him, but because He knew there was a next lesson to be learned in their journey thus far.

In our lives, God will send you where He needs you, even after the greatest miracle you’ve experienced. Your journey (testimony) does not end with a miracle. Whether you were miraculously healed, saved, or came to salvation – you will be sent to the next destination. Jesus knows there is something else you need to experience and learn from to grow closer to Him and to trust Him.

But, as children do, we sometimes throw a tantrum about leaving our comfort zone. We make up excuses upon excuses not to go. We hold on to the familiar instead of trusting Jesus and embracing the next journey. Lovely one, it might be a small step you need to take, but it could be the biggest step of your entire life. Trust the sender.

Prayer: Father, there are times I have fought against where You were sending me, and very much like Jonah, quickly understood Your plan is bigger and that You’ve chosen me to be part of it. May we embrace these opportunities You give us – whether it’s something small at work, home or bigger like embarking on a missionary trip. Thank You, Lord, that You trust us with what You give us and may we learn to trust You in every step of our journey. Amen.