40 Day Bible Reading Challenge: Day 12 John Loses his Head, Jesus Feeds the Multitude , Jesus walks on Water

 

Matthew Chapter 14 begins with Herod the tetrarch hearing about Jesus' miraculous deeds, leading him to speculate that Jesus is John the Baptist resurrected. Herod had previously imprisoned John for rebuking Herod's unlawful marriage to Herodias, his brother's wife. Despite his desire to kill John, Herod refrained due to the people's high regard for John as a prophet. However, during Herod's birthday celebration, Herodias' daughter, having danced for Herod and his guests, requests John's head on a platter, a wish Herod fulfills despite his distress, due to his oaths and the presence of his guests. John's disciples later bury his body and inform Jesus of his death.

Following this, Jesus seeks solitude but is followed by crowds. In a display of compassion, He heals their sick. As the day ends, despite the disciples' suggestion to send the crowd away to find food, Jesus miraculously feeds over five thousand people with just five loaves and two fish, with leftovers filling twelve baskets. This miracle further underscores Jesus' divine power and His care for the physical needs of the people, alongside their spiritual well-being.

The narrative concludes with Jesus sending the disciples ahead by boat while He prays alone. Later, He walks on water to meet them, calming their fears and strengthening their faith, especially Peter's, who momentarily walks on water before doubting and being saved by Jesus. This event deepens the disciples' recognition of Jesus' divine nature. Upon reaching Gennesaret, Jesus' healing powers draw more followers, fulfilling their needs and solidifying His reputation as a healer and a miracle worker, further establishing His identity as the Son of God among the people.