Jump Start # 3847
Luke 9:11 ‘But the crowds were aware of this and followed Him; and welcoming them, He began speaking to them about the kingdom of God and curing those who had need of healing.”
Our verse today leads into the feeding of the five thousand. Matthew tells us that Jesus had learned about the death of John, his cousin, the prophet. It is tragic when someone dies young. John was six months older than Jesus, both in their early 30s. John was a family member, that makes this even tougher. John died violently at the hands of the government. And, John died for preaching the truth. Both would be coming to Jesus very soon.
Jesus and the apostles get in a boat to be by themselves. As they travel, folks on the shore can see where they are headed and they run on ahead. As Jesus reaches shore, a crowd is waiting for Him. Not a moment of rest or peace for our Lord. Jesus uses the opportunity to teach and heal. As the day begins to end, the disciples ask Jesus to send the people home. Instead, He tells them to feed the crowd, which quickly becomes an immediate impossibility for them. A miracle found in all four gospels, the feeding of the 5,000 while not as spectacular as Lazarus walking out of the tomb, or Peter walking on water, was important enough to be included in all the Gospels.
It is here in our verse that we find a phrase that is most comforting and inviting. The text says that Jesus was “welcoming them.” He made it appealing for them to come to Him. How easily Jesus could say, “Not today. I’m not having a good day. I’m thinking about John.” But, He didn’t. Nor did He say, “I’m tired, give me some space.” Massive crowds. Matthew counts five thousand men. Add women and children to that and the number easily touches ten thousand or more. And, Jesus welcomed them.
Here are some thoughts for us:
First, evangelism begins with welcoming people into our hearts and lives. When a visitor walks through the doors on a Sunday morning, are they met with smiles, warm words, or the stares of “who are you?” We can frighten people away even before they reach the first pew. Jesus welcomed them.
Second, the concepts of discipleship begin with denying self. Tired, but still welcoming. Never too bothered to welcome. This happens when we think of others before we think of ourselves. Sometimes the time just isn’t good for you, but you’ll still make the time. Sometimes you wonder why is it always me. Where is everyone else. Still you’ll welcome. Sometimes you are busy, still you will welcome. Take lessons from Jesus here.
Third, put yourself in the shoe of the person who is welcomed. Boy, that sure makes you feel good. Welcoming comes in many flavors. It is bringing food to someone who recently had surgery. It is mowing the yard of someone who can’t do that. It’s going out of your way to make someone feel comfortable and loved.
Years ago I went to India with several preachers. We were teaching and preaching for several weeks. We went out to the villages where very, very few could speak English. We used interpreters. But I found that a smile works in all languages. Smiles can melt a sour attitude. Smiles can open closed doors. Smiles are the welcome mat to the heart.
Part of evangelism is developing the congregation to be a welcoming church. It does little good to invite people if they are met with frowns and “you’re sitting in my spot.” Jesus welcomed. The people didn’t feel bothered to bother Jesus. The way a church becomes a welcoming church is to begin with one another. I think some faces would crack if they ever smiled. They ought to try it. Welcome one another. It is a fellowship that we belong to. Open arms and open hearts during the sunshine of life will help during the storms of life.
And, one day, the Lord will welcome us into His home. To the five talent man the master said, “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter into the joy of your master.” Enter. I’ll hold the door open for you. Enter, you belong inside with me. Enter, you are welcome.
Jesus welcomed…
Roger