Problems of the hardened heart

Bible Reading - Mark 6:31-56

Those of us who play the guitar would notice that after some time, the fingers we use to play the instrument would become rough. If we do not do anything about them, the regular friction between our fingers and the guitar strings would create a layer of hardened skin.

Seeing or hearing about Jesus’ signs and wonders is like strumming a guitar. Our hearts may come into contact with the miracles that demonstrate Jesus’ power. But because we do not anything about what we see or hear, our hearts may become hardened after some time.

The disciples were in a similar situation. Though they had seen Jesus’ miracles, they did not understand the significance of these signs and wonders. They did not exercise faith. In one instance, the disciples were struggling to row their boat against the strong wind (v45-48). When they finally saw Jesus miraculously walking on water, they weren’t happy to see Him at all. Instead they were frightened because they thought He was a ghost (v49-50)!

Some of us may be confused by the disciples’ reaction. Earlier on, didn’t they witness Jesus feed five thousand people with five loaves and two fish (v31-44)? It was clear that Jesus had power over nature. Why would they find it strange then that Jesus could take a stroll on the lake? Shouldn’t they be relieved that Jesus was there to help them?

The Bible gives the answer – the disciples were terrified because they had hardened hearts (v52). They did not understand what the miracles had demonstrated about Jesus’ authority over nature. They did not look beyond the signs and wonders to know the God who performed them. Their hardened hearts limited their expectation of what Jesus, the Son of God, could do. They failed to see Jesus’ divinity.

Signs and wonders are supposed to point us back to Jesus Christ, to show us how special and powerful He is. They are a gateway for us to exercise our faith in the power of Christ. But when our hearts are hardened, we miss out on the opportunities to know Christ and act in faith.

It is important to look beyond the signs and wonders to reflect on who Jesus is and respond to Him with faith. Think of miracles performed by Jesus that you have read or heard about. What do they say about Jesus – who He is and what He can do? In light of that knowledge, how can you step out in faith today?

As you spend time on the couch with God, take a moment to pray and reflect on what you've read..