Going Green
October 12th, 2009
There are a number of ways that the gospel writers point out that Jesus is the Messiah. One of the early thoughts about Messiah was that he would have healing in his “wings” (corners) of his garment (Malachi 4:2). The woman with the blood issue touched his fringes and was healed (Matthew 9:21). He would be a descendant of Abraham (Genesis 12:3) and Matthew (1:2) declares the fulfillment.
Each of the gospels records the feeding of the 5000 as a declaration of Jesus as Messiah. How amazing it would be to have (in their minds) a Messiah who could feed an army by multiplying food! To have a Messiah who could raise dead soldiers from a battle! To have a Messiah who could heal wounds received in a fight! The Romans could not stand against Israel if that were the case.
Perhaps Mark, in his account of the 5000, also gives a subtle affirmation of who Jesus was in Mark 6:39. The text says that Jesus told the people to sit in groups on the GREEN grass. Why is Mark the only one to add the grass’ color? Was it for a little drama? Could it be a reminder of Psalm 23 where the Lord makes us lie down in GREEN pastures? Jews ate in a reclining position. Thus, they were lying down in a green pasture when Jesus, the Lord, provided this feast.
What do we gain by Bible study? Is it just knowledge or is there more? What do you feel in your soul when you recognize that Jesus lived out his life fulfilling the word of God? Does it make you want to follow him more closely?
Keep The Light Burning!
Perry Greene
