“…Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves.” -Matthew 14:19
Jesus set an example for us to follow. To set this example, Jesus would teach, share scripture, and tell stories to guide our thoughts and actions. He would also show us how to live by his example. One of the ways that Jesus set an example is through his actions at the table and before significant meals. At the beginning of these meals, Jesus demonstrates the importance of gratitude.
Jesus had been traveling from village to village around the Sea of Galilee. He and his disciples had just received word of the passing of Jesus’ cousin, John the Baptist. They set out to find a quiet spot to be by themselves. A large crowd of over 5,000 followed. What happens next is one of the greatest miracles in the New Testament.
There was not enough food for such a large gathering. The disciples wanted Jesus to send the people away. Jesus had them take a seat on the grass. He took the five loaves of bread and the two fish the disciples had, and He looked up to heaven. Jesus gave thanks. (Matthew 14:19)
The rest of this miracle story is well known. The entire crowd was fed. God’s compassion and power were shown to the people. This story still inspires God’s people today.
At this meal, Jesus demonstrates that gratitude comes first. It is easy to read past this part of the story as we look forward to the great miracle to come. However, Jesus offers thanks to God first. After this moment of giving thanks to God, “from whom all blessings flow,” there is a time of generous abundance. The Scriptures leave little room for doubt that generosity is possible when we start with the perspective of gratitude. We have much to be thankful for, and the more we practice gratitude, the more we will see we have much to give.
Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
