I get scared that Jesus isn’t sure how to help me, so I turn my attention to what I think will solve my problem. It’s usually money. I have a hard time trusting that he knows better and that my plan is probably lame compared to his. Thank God he acts for my good anyway, even if my attention is divided!

Do you feel like these people from Scripture who look in the wrong direction?

Five THOUSAND people are hungry after being outside with Jesus all day. So he asks the disciples: “How can we feed these people?” And Philip makes a fool of himself by answering, “Right?? We need SO MUCH money to make that happen!” Money, Philip? Really? Jesus was right there!

The paralyzed man lying by the Bethesda pool missed it too. Jesus asks, “Do you want to be well?” and the man replies, “Right?? I can’t get down to the magical healing water!” Magic water? Really?? Jesus was right there!

I want to be like Mary, who didn’t tell Jesus HOW to solve the problem, but just stepped back to watch him work.

Mary goes to Jesus and simply states the need, “They have no more wine.” And when Jesus says, “How is that my business?” She tells the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” SHE gets it. She knows where the good wine comes from! And even if he doesn’t make wine, he’ll do the most perfect thing. Whatever that is.

Our family table prayer (from Luther’s Small Catechism) starts with:

“The eyes of all look to you, O Lord, and you give them their food at the proper time. You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing.” Even if we don’t know HOW.

My plans are so lame and small. But he will always do the most perfect thing. I’m going to practice looking away from money, or magic water, and turn my attention to Jesus. Will you join me?

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