Near Bethsaida, at the northern end of the lake, was a lonely region, now beautiful with the fresh green of spring, that offered a welcome retreat to Jesus and His disciples. For this place they set out, going in their boat across the water. Here they would be away from the thoroughfares of travel, and the bustle and agitation of the city. The scenes of nature were in themselves a rest, a change grateful to the senses. Here they could listen to the words of Christ without hearing the angry interruptions, the retorts and accusations of the scribes and Pharisees. Here they could enjoy a short season of precious fellowship in the society of their Lord.

I nærheden af Betsajda var der nord for søen en ensom egn, der på dette tidspunkt var smuk og forårsgrøn. Den ydede Jesus og hans disciple et kærkomment tilflugtsted. De begav sig på vej hertil og drog i deres båd over søen. Her ville de være fjernt fra de store færdselsårer og fra byens larm og uro. Selve landskabet var en hvile og forandring, der virkede velgørende på sindet. Her kunne de lytte til Kristi ord uden at måtte høre de skriftkloges og farisæernes harmfulde afbrydelser og skarpe svar og beskyldninger. Her kunne de nyde en kort stund med værdifuldt fællesskab i Frelserens nærhed.