Disappointments and God’s Moving


I’ve been rehearsing Matthew 14 in my mind this last week. As I read through the accounts of Jesus’ ministry, a thought entered my mind. About midway through the chapter, you discover Jesus’ reaction to John’s death. He hears about how John is murdered. He is obviously moved. Jesus’ exits the scene for isolation by withdrawing by boat to a solitary place. What did Jesus think? Was he disappointed or perhaps disheartened? The way and manner in which John died was selfish and cruel! Perhaps it was a moment in stark realization of the lostness and depravity of man. Regardless of the thoughts, which ran through Jesus’ mind, this was a dark moment for our Savior. Jesus eventually lands on the other side of the lake. A small but growing crowd gathers. He ministers to them out of His compassion and heals their sick. In the verses to follow you read the record of perhaps one of Jesus’ most significant miracles – the feeding of the 5,000. Jesus would use a few loaves and fish to feed a multitude. Everyone ate their fill with baskets full of leftovers to spare.

Then it hit me. Remember the disappointment Jesus’ experienced before arriving at the other side of the lake? Did you see the incredible miracle Jesus performed? Here’s the thought. Out of disappointment, God can do some of His greatest work. Did you catch that? Just outside of disappointment may be a great working of God. You might reside in disappointment today, but tomorrow may bring an incredible moving of God in your life. I want for you to have hope. The One you love loves you more than you can imagine. He has a purpose and plan for your life. Even in days of disappointment, the miracle may be just around the corner.