When I was little, this story fascinated me. How could Jesus feed so many people when he started with such a small quantity of food?
Now I’m older and I look at this story in a different way. It’s not about the size of the crowd or even the multiplication of the food. For me, I see it now as being about the identity of Jesus
The story began with Jesus seeking solitude to grieve over the death of his cousin John the Baptist, but when he saw the crowds of people following him, he felt compassion. He healed the sick and cared for their needs. Jesus is never too busy not to care for us.
As the time grew late, the disciples only saw problems. Five loaves and two fish, thousands of hungry people. Yet Jesus saw possibilities!
He invited the disciples to bring the small offering of food to him, gave thanks and asked the disciples to feed all the people. Everyone ate enough and there were even left overs!
God can do extraordinary things with ordinary gifts offered to him. He is our generous provider.
What can we learn from this story? The disciples focused on what they lacked. Jesus focused on what the Father could do.
Perhaps that’s the invitation for us today. Instead of asking, “What don’t I have?” we ask, “What can I place into Jesus’ hands?”
When we do that, he has a way of multiplying our small acts of faith for his glory and for the blessing of others.
Sue Fysh
