Understanding does not come without belief. If we refuse to believe what evidence supports a claim, we will close the door on any understanding we may gain from it. That is what the early disciples did. Time and time again, they just couldn't come to believe Jesus' claim to be the Son of God--Son of man, yes; Son of God, too big a stretch of faith. And Jesus rebuked them again and again for their "hardness of heart." The disciples knew that Jesus had power from God. They had witnessed it. But, then, He died just like the transgressors crucified on each side of Him. The women and some of the men who followed Jesus told the disciples that they had put Him in a tomb. Jesus was dead, and to them, all that He had showed and taught them was dead to them also. Then, came these people claiming that He is alive! They had seen Him and talked with Him! Hysterical fools! They ought to know from history that even prophets of God in the past died and stayed dead (or most of them). But, then, Jesus appeared to them! Now, they believed and understood what He meant when He said the Son of man would be handed over to the Gentiles and they would put Him to death; but after three days He would rise again from death (See Mark 10:33-34). Despite their shaky faith, Jesus sends the disciples out to preach the Gospel, but not alone nor without help to come to understanding, for He "kept working with them."

Like the early disciples, we, too, must allow Him to work with us until our faith becomes understanding. We can start with the faith of a child--just taking Him at His word. Think about it.