We live in a culture that says we can choose whichever path we want. 'If it's true for you then it's true'. But Jesus here is very controversially saying 'No!' There are only two paths, two decisions. One towards him and one away from him, and what we choose will have eternal consequences!
Jesus miraculously provides for thousands of people through some loaves and fish, but haven't we heard this before? Simon talks about the reason for this second miracle and why Jesus warns his disciples against yeast!
Jesus never misses an opportunity to teach his disciples something about his good news. Here it's through a desperate woman who sees Jesus for who he really is!
As we come to two of the most well-known and widely spoken about miracles in the Gospels we see a common problem with the disciples. On both occasions, they fix their eyes on the problem in front of them rather than on Jesus.
From the outside it can look like Herod is the successful one compared to John. There is much for us to learn from this account!