Listening and Sharing

7Philip answered him, “It would take more than half a year’s wages^a to buy enough bread for each one to have a bite!”

8Another of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, spoke up, 9“Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?”

10Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.” There was plenty of grass in that place, and they sat down (about five thousand men were there). 11Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish.

12When they had all had enough to eat, he said to his disciples, “Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted.” 13So they gathered them and filled twelve baskets with the pieces of the five barley loaves left over by those who had eaten.

14After the people saw the sign Jesus performed, they began to say, “Surely this is the Prophet who is to come into the world.” 15Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself.  (John 6) 

Thoughts: If we do what Jesus asks us, and we put our little resources in His hands, amazing things happen!  Barley loaves were the cheapest grained bread.  The small fish were probably like anchovies.  They couldn't feed 5,000.  But the boy's willingness to share his lunch- even give up his lunch is blessed.  The disciples also listened and did exactly as Jesus said.  In the end there was more than enough- even some left over- 12 baskets.  This was not just, as some infer, that Jesus go the boy to share his lunch and that inspired others.  They were amazed at this work and called him a prophet and wanted to make him king (14,15).  Jesus does amazing things- and we see His glory- when we are willing to share and put our small resources in His big hands. 

Prayer: Lord, give me grace to give what you have given me back to you.  Take what I have and multiply it to meet the needs of others and to glorify yourself.