Today’s gospel selection takes place roughly halfway through Mark’s gospel. Jesus leaves the Mediterranean coast, passes by the Sea of Galilee and goes to the pagan territory east of the sea. Even if he would have been able to travel in a straight line, the trip would have covered a minimum of 60 miles. That said, the important line in the passage is when the people say, “ He has done all things well.” Mark puts these words on the lips of pagans. This is a reflection of Mark’s community which was most likely made up of many pagan converts. The Jewish leaders never give praise to Jesus. The question for us is, are we quick to praise and thank the Lord for the blessings we receive? Or, do we complain when we don’t get what we want?