Today's Gospel passage is a prelude to the 'Multiplication of the Loaves'. It includes the following:
i) Jesus' invitation to the Apostles to rest in a lonely place by themselves (vs 30-31)
ii) How the crowd followed them (vs 32-33) and
iii) Jesus' compassion in reaching out to the people (v.34)

Firstly, asking the Apostles to rest in a lonely place - this indicates the need for those in active missions to take time off and relax with God. Secondly, the crowd represent the people who need to be cared for; and thirdly, Jesus reveales his compassion for the people by feeding them in the multiplication of the loaves.

This is what King Solomon asked God to bless him with a discerning mind and heart, for he placed his people before his own needs. This pleased God, who granted him his wish.

In today's context, we can see two salient points, namely the realisation of the need to rest and be in solitude, preferably with prayer amid busy times in ministries. This is being contemplatives in action.

The call to be compassionate towards those God sends into our lives is another aspect of discipleship. Let us take heed of these two reminders and pray for the spirit of wisdom to discern God's will for all of us in our daily lives.