This week we hear another story of Jesus going about preaching and healing. After this particular instance, he goes off to pray. When the apostles find him and suggest they need to go because “everyone is looking for you.”
While it is easy to focus on Jesus healing others and curing diseases, but it’s the preaching that is the primary purpose of Jesus’ mission. He goes to a town to put the message into hearts so they will be able to give it to others. It is this contagious joy or grace that works in community. Preaching creates in people the beginning of a relationship that is life-giving, healing and transforming for the one who receives it and for those who come into that person’s presence.
Let’s take that joy and spread it with others this week.