Mark 7:31-37

 Mark 7:31-37- http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%207:31-37&version=CEV

  It used to puzzle me: Jesus taught the truth of God for the people of God, but at the same time wanted to keep a low profile. To those who were healed he asked they don't talk about him. To Peter, he also tells him to keep his knowledge private. It just doesn't make sense- out of context.
  When Hurricane Katrina hit I can remember going to the gas station and waiting in lines to fill up my tank. Eventually the gas stations dried up and there was no gas to be had for anyone. It didn't matter if you needed  gas or not. A large reason this happened was fear. People were afraid there wouldn't be gas when gas was needed. Yes, in Atlanta there was a distribution issue; a distribution issue that would have played a role in gas quantity a few days after the run on the pumps. 
  Banks, gas stations, grocery stores, as well as other services do not have enough product for everyone to go buy it at once. The local grocery store keeps enough toilet paper stocked for the people who have an immediate need but not enough for everyone. The gas station keeps enough gas for those who need gas but not for everyone to top off their tank. The bank keeps enough cash on hand for those who need to pull out cash but not enough for everyone to pull all their funds. 
  Some of you might be reading this bored out of your mind because it seems so obvious, but have you considered it in relation to Jesus? As long as Jesus was able to keep a low profile, he was able to help those who needed to be helped. The more people who spread the word about what Jesus could do the more people who were asking for Jesus' help whether they needed it or not. Jesus didn't want a 'run on his time.' (You know, like a run on gas?) 
  It doesn't puzzle me anymore. Instead I see being a Christian a little differently. I have be aware when it is time to accept Jesus' time and compassion, and I have to be aware when I need to step back and allow someone else to get that time. I don't want to be the person who hinders the spirit because I constantly want the spiritual attention in church when others need  it.