November 28, 2016 Matthew 14
The common reference to the year of Jesus life recorded in the section of Matthew containing chapter 14, is that of His year of popularity. Twice in this chapter the crowds press in on Him and twice He seeks refuge in solitude. The desire for solitude reminds the reader of the humanity of Christ. After gaining information of John’s beheading, Jesus sought solitude. Sometimes there is nothing quite like some time to yourself. Circumstances always have meaning for the present and the future and this occurrence was likely a signal to Jesus that His year of popularity was passing rather quickly. Just as John was persecuted, Jesus’ fate was near. Jesus probably wanted to not only be alone, He probably wanted a little uninterrupted time with the Father. His second attempt to find a little solitude was after feeding 5,000 people and preaching. It seems to be clear, Jesus wanted and needed to recharge His internal batteries. Perhaps there is a lesson here for modern believers. In a world full of noise, maybe it is time to seek out some solitude.
This chapter records one of the few times anyone associated with Jesus spoke out against anything to do with the Romans. And in this instance, it seems to be one connected to the Jewish family that John confronted for His adultery. Even in this instance, it seems as though John may have spoken to Herod privately. Even so, John’s candor to Herod had upset Herodias to the point she desired his life. Does it not seem interesting that Herod was reluctant to take John’s life, but due to his oath, he followed through. And that was it. There was no legal recourse for anyone as there would be in the US. John was dead, end of story.
In addition to the beheading of John, there are two other stories that overshadow Jesus’ desire for solitude. They include the first feeding of 5,000 and Peter walking on the water. Both lend themselves well to sermonizing and spirit filled teaching. They are taught to young children in Sunday school and they are thundered from pulpits all across the world. But let us remember the story of Jesus’ seeking solitude. If Jesus, who is one with the Father, needed a time of solitude, how much more to those of us incarnate and distant from the Father, need times of solitude. Just as the crowds pressed in on Jesus, the noise of 21st century American presses in on believers like a heavy fog on a humid spring morning.
Could it be that you need to find a time of solitude sometime this week? A time to get away from the bus-i-ness of this world to reflect upon your life and seek the face of God. The circumstances of your life signal something has passed and something is ahead. For Jesus’, John’s days on earth were ended and he faced more ministry ahead. In an attempt to follow in the footprints of Jesus, remember the walk he took to be alone for a time of solitude.
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