Up to this point Jesus and the boys have been busy. They've been traveling, talking, teaching, telling stories, and thinking about their next stops. Could be that they were exhausted, fatigued, felt like they were in a whirlwind, and just plain focused and on a mission. Can you relate? Have you ever been so swamped, engrossed, or occupied that you didn't see people, hear people, or want to be bothered by other people?
John 4:46b-47
Now this guy shows up after having heard about Jesus, but not really interested in anything else but his sick child. He's the picture of an earthly minded person.
In verse 48 Jesus reminds His followers and listeners they have the wrong priorities and the wrong outlook on life. Physical healing is only a short-term solution to an eternal problem.