"Are we to go spend that much on bread?" The disciples were startled when Jesus told them to give the crowd something to eat. They were in a remote place. The intention was for the disciples to have a much needed retreat with Jesus after their mission trip. The disciples' compassion had probably run out, and it felt like a sensible thing to send the crowd away so that they could attend to their own needs. Then the disciples could take a break.

However, Jesus guided them to understand what it meant to take care of God's flock. "You give them something to eat." Jesus told his disciples it was their responsibility to feed the crowd and then asked them to bring what they had. All they could gather was five loaves of bread and two fish. Jesus gave thanks for the food and told the disciples to distribute food to the crowd. A crowd of five thousand men ate well with abundant leftovers.

We don't know how it happened. It was a miracle. When Jesus wanted to feed the crowd out of compassion, the disciples brought the little food they could find. As Jesus prayed with a thankful heart, God blessed them to have enough to feed everyone.


Application: Father, I often feel like I don't have enough to feed your flock. But I bring my five loaves and two fish. Please use it in your great work.
One Word: Bring my five loaves and two fish.