Luke 5:1-3

“He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little way from the shore. Then he sat down and taught the crowds from the boat.” vs. 3

According to Luke, after the drama of Nazareth, Jesus continued his ministry in Capernaum, a prosperous trading village at the northern end of the Sea of Galilee. While there he became acquainted with a number of residents as he healed the sick and cast out demons, but Luke also tells us that many were interested in what he had to say. In fact, on one occasion such a crowd gathered on the shore that Jesus got into a fishing boat to enable everyone to hear better. The scene is idyllic, one we can easily imagine, and we’d love to know what Jesus preached about. His words were likely related to the kingdom of God and the signs of its presence in everyday life, and were probably told in the form of parables, Jesus’ favorite form of teaching. But the people weren’t there just for the sermon–Luke tells us that they were particularly interested in healing, both for themselves and for those they loved. It’s that sort of thing that continues to draw people to Jesus. Granted, it’s not physical healing so much anymore that attracts us, but we certainly are looking for spiritual peace and serenity. It’s nice to hear a well-prepared sermon at worship, but when the healing blanket of peace becomes our daily comforter, contentment is not far behind.

Thought for the Day: What would Jesus have preached about?