Dull in understanding, slow to believe, and lazy in obedience … all characteristics of the disciples. Mind you, these Twelve were with Jesus, learning by His side. If that’s the case with them, we ought all to be on guard that we don’t develop a hard heart. Jesus warns them against the little “leavens” that corrupt the heart, and we would do well to listen in on His warnings too!

Here we go again … another feeding, more fights with the Jewish leaders, and a lack of complete understanding by the disciples. Why does John Mark (under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit) include these events here in chapter eight? If we look carefully, we see the compassion of Jesus spreading as the disciples understand a little bit more. As for the Pharisees, they can’t see what’s right in front of their faces. Oh God, give us understanding of your Son Jesus so that we follow Him with our whole hearts!

A gentile mom had greater understanding of, and faith in, Jesus than the disciples. How did that happen? Simply – Jesus opened her heart to believe in Him. In our narrative today, we see that beautiful picture of the work of Jesus to open deaf ears and make speechless tongues to give praise to Him. This story brings the cohesive teaching of Mark 7 to a glorious conclusion – Jesus does all things well!