5 Loaves and 2 Fish
Matthew, Luke and John all tell us the story of Jesus feeding a crowd of 5000+ with 5 loaves and 2 fish. It is truly a miracle. Let's look at it together and see what we can learn.
Jesus had just learned of the death of his cousin, John the Baptist. Understandably, he went to find a place where he could be alone. He needed to process the news. But the people were so hungry for what Jesus was teaching, they followed him. When he saw the crowd, he had compassion on them and began ministering to them. Think about this. Jesus was mourning the loss of someone he loved. He wanted to be alone. But he set aside his own desire and ministered to the people.
As evening approached, the disciples came to Jesus and said, "we'd better wrap things up and send the people away. We are way out in the boondocks and they have quite a ways to go to find food." Jesus said to them, "They don't need to go anywhere, you feed them."
"8 months wages wouldn't even give all these people a bite!" Phillip responded. Andrew spoke up and said, "Well, a boy has his lunch of 5 loaves and 2 fish, but that won't go very far."
Jesus had the people sit down. He took the loaves and fish, gave thanks, broke them and gave them to the disciples. The disciples then distributed it to the people. Everyone ate until they were full and when they were finished, the disciples gathered 12 baskets full of leftovers! What?!
A few things to notice about this story:
- The disciples recognized that there was a need to feed all these people. Their solution was to send them away to fend for themselves.
How often do we see a need and instead of asking Jesus how to meet it, we push the responsibility to someone else to take care of because we don't see a solution? When the disciples brought their concern to Jesus, he immediately told them to feed the people. I'm sure they had not even considered this. They had the capacity and compassion to see the need, but they did not yet have the capacity and faith to see that they could believe God to feed all these people.
We are the hands and feet of Jesus on the earth. Our assignment is bring the Kingdom of God...on earth as it is in heaven. We can only do that when we do not run away from needs, but rather take them to Jesus and ask him for wisdom to meet the need.
2. A little boy offered his lunch.
Only a child, or someone with childlike faith, would offer 5 loaves and 2 fish to help feed 5000 people. It seems ridiculous...it is barely enough for one person, but this boy wanted to give what he had. He wanted to participate in Jesus' ministry. He wanted to be part of what he had witnessed. So he gave what he had and Jesus used it in a way that no one, except Jesus, could have imagined.
Give me faith like this! No matter how ridiculously inadequate what you have to offer in a situation of need, do not discount it. God can, and will, multiply it to fill the need and leave you with extra.
What do you have to offer Jesus that seems like it is not enough? Give it to him and see what He will do!
3. Jesus had the people sit down.
The people that benefited from this miracle did not have to do anything to receive it. All they had to do was to be there. They all had come to this remote place, seeking Jesus, wanting to learn more about the Kingdom of God. Just by being there and being hungry, first spiritually and then physically, they were witness and benefactors of the miracle.
So often, we feel that we need to strive and struggle to receive from Jesus, when in reality all we need to do is be in His presence. Seek first the kingdom, and the rest is added to you.
4. He gave thanks.
The bible does not tell us the exact words Jesus used when he offered a prayer before distributing the food. All it says is that He gave thanks. Maybe something like: "Thank you, Father, that you are Jehovah Jireh, my provider." "Thank you for these many people that are hungry to learn about your kingdom." Thank you for this child that has shared his lunch with us."
No matter how impossible the circumstances seem, give thanks. Thank God for anything you can think of. There is always something to be thankful for if we just stop and think about it. Take the focus off your circumstances and put them on the good things in your life. You will find there are many blessings to offer thanks for.
5. Jesus gave the food to the disciples and the disciples distributed it.
Even though the disciples could not fathom how they could possibly feed the huge crowd without breaking the bank - they were the ones who ended up distributing the food to the people.
When we bring what we have to Jesus, he will multiply it and give it back to us so that we can give it to others. Often we try to hold on so tightly to what we have, afraid to let it go, afraid we won't have enough. Letting go and trusting God will open up opportunities for us to minister His love to others. If we are willing and obedient, he will use us in miraculous and mighty ways.
6. Everyone ate until they were satisfied
There were approximately 5000 men present for this miracle. That does not count the women and children. It is fair to say there were over 10,000 people that ate that day. EVERYONE ate until they were satisfied. From 5 loaves and 2 fish!
When we seek first the kingdom of God, His way of doing things, He will satisfy us. He will lead us and guide us on the path that He has planned for us. He will provide widsom and resources for us to live an abundant and satisfied life. Are you eating until you are satisfied?
7. There were leftovers!
After everyone had eaten, Jesus told the disciples to gather the leftovers - let nothing be wasted. They ended up with 12 baskets full!
When Jesus gives something to use, there will always be something for us to share with others. He works in us not only for our benefit but also for the benefit of others. Don't let shame or timidity keep you from telling others about the wonderfull things Jesus has done for you. Don't keep his goodness to yourself. Share the leftovers, share the overflow. Someone needs your leftovers.