Saturday in the Fourth Week of Ordinary Time

[Scripture Readings: Heb 13:15-17, 20-21; Mk 6:30-34]

Jesus wanted some quiet time with his apostles in a deserted place where they could rest and renew their strength, just as people do today by going to a monastery for a few days, or even by joining one. In the natural rhythm of life there’s a time to work and a time to play, a time to labor and a time to rest.

But people’s demands and unexpected things often disrupt the natural rhythm of life. Jesus and the apostles wanted a solitary place to rest and eat by themselves. They end up eating with more than five thousand people who witness a miracle that foreshadows the mystery of the Eucharist. In the Providence of God even frustration of the natural rhythm of life works for the good of those who love Him.