Scripture: John 6:3 (ESV) – “Jesus went up on the mountain, and there he sat down with his disciples.”
Jesus, seeing the crowds approach, retreats—not into hiding, but into purposeful stillness. He goes up the mountain, not to escape, but to teach and prepare. This is a scene of intentional withdrawal, where the noise of the crowd fades, and the company of the disciples takes center stage.
Martin Bucer observes that Christ often withdrew before revealing something greater. He notes, “Solitudo montis praeparat animos ad mysteria regni Dei”—“The solitude of the mountain prepares the heart for the mysteries of the kingdom of God.” This was not a random pause. It was a setting for formation, not performance.
Jesus does not rush to address the crowd; He sits with His disciples. The posture is that of a rabbi—seated, settled, about to teach those who are near. Before the miracle of bread, before the sermon that will thin the crowds, there is this moment of quiet instruction and holy anticipation.
This verse reminds us of the need to withdraw with Christ, to come away from the constant demands and noise, and to be still under His teaching. If we want to be shaped by Him, we must follow Him—not only in mission, but also into the quiet places where He forms the heart.
Reflection Questions:
- Why do you think Jesus withdrew to the mountain before the miracle?
- Are you allowing space in your life to sit quietly with Jesus—to listen and learn?
- What might change in your discipleship if you made space for intentional withdrawal with Christ?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, draw me away from the noise, the urgency, and the constant motion. Lead me up the mountain with You, where I can hear You clearly and sit in stillness at Your feet. Prepare my heart, not just for the works You do, but for the Word You speak. Amen.
This devotional is based on John 6:3 and the pastoral reflections of Martin Bucer’s Latin exposition on John.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 