“Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?” – John 6:9
One of the great struggles of our faith is that we easily doubt what God is capable of doing with us, and through us. In part, this comes from limited vision. We sometimes fail to see our gifts as God sees them. We doubt that we have what it takes to make a significant difference. I believe this is why John tells the powerful story of the feeding of the 5000 on the mountainside.
The feeding of the 5000 features two people who team up to make this miracle happen. This miracle is made possible through the efforts of Jesus and a young boy who has five loaves of bread and two small fish.
As Jesus ministered to people around the sea of Galilee, word about his teachings and miracles spread. Large crowds began to follow him. They followed him out into the wilderness, away from their towns and villages. The disciples began to worry about feeding such a large group. Jesus took the opportunity to teach the disciples an important lesson. Jesus asked Phillip, “Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?” Phillip, shocked by Jesus’ question, replied, “It would take more than half a year’s wages to buy enough bread for each one to have a bite!” Jesus knew they did not have the money, but he knew there was a way.
Peter pointed out there was a small boy with just a few loaves of bread and a couple of fish. That was enough. Jesus had the people sit down. He gave thanks and passed the fish and bread. Everyone had more than enough to eat.
When we realize that God takes our offering, large or small, and works good for those around us, we will see that we have much to offer. I am sure the young boy who brought a little food with him did not realize that he would help to bring about one of the greatest miracles in the Bible. He simply offered what he had, and God did the rest.
We are capable of great things, not because of what we have to offer, but because our God is working through us.
– Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
