I have to assume that the leaven Jesus is referring to is that hard and unbelieving heart that demands proof before believing. Jesus is saying, “Don’t go down that road; that condition, like leaven, will just cause circumstances to grow seemingly more impossible in your imaginations.” Jesus was nurturing the tender and growing faith in these men’s lives and he did not want the religiously correct and their thought processes to serve as a toxic reference point. He had to confront this situation for their faith’s sake. He will once again have to show them how radically differently He and The Father thinks than they do….
Why do you discuss the fact that you have no bread? Do you not yet see or understand? Do you have a hardened heart? Having eyes, do you not see? And having ears, do you not hear? And do you not remember……
What is that Jesus is trying to get across to us? What is it that draws the deep sighs from His heart? Isn’t it this; that in simple childlike faith we can trust that our daily needs will be met by Him? If we are tempted toward unbelief can we not remember one occasion after another where God has supplied our needs (and then some)? I believe what Jesus is saying is simply, “Do not discuss in your own minds (or especially with others) the fact that you have no bread (or whatever you perceive to be lacking); instead remember and discuss the fact that you have Me.”
Everything that goes into a life of pleasing God has been miraculously given to us by getting to know, personally and intimately, the One who invited us to God. 2 Peter 1:3-4 MSG
God can pour on the blessings in astonishing ways so that you’re ready for anything and everything, more than just ready to do what needs to be done. As one psalmist puts it, He throws caution to the winds giving to the needy in reckless abandon. His right-living, right-giving ways never run out, never wear out. 2 Corinthians 9:8-9 MSG
Father, Help us to each see our curriculum right in front of us in the school of Christ we are each enrolled in as Your children and disciples. May we progressively enjoy that deep rest in Christ where we realize that not only are You near to us but that our lives are beautifully interwoven with Your own, in Christ. Give us this day our daily bread and lead us away from all forms of unbelief. Amen.