YOU FEED THEM

Whenever people gather, you always have to think about food.  It was no different in Jesus’ day.  Wherever he went, crowds would come to hear his life changing words, often for days at a time. 

Luke recounts how Jesus had previously given the twelve authority and power over demons and disease, and sent them out to “proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal.”

Upon their return from their journeys, they withdrew to a town called Bethsaida.   When the crowds learned of it, they followed.   Jesus “welcomed them and spoke to them of the kingdom of God and cured those who had need of healing.” 

After several days, food was apparently scarce and the disciples suggested that Jesus send the crowd of 5,000 men away to find provisions and lodging.  There would have been even more than 5,000, including women and children. 

But Jesus said simply, “You feed them.” 

He wanted them to participate in the miracle. 

Right away, though, they seemed to look at their circumstances, how things looked on the ground, so to speak. 

“We have no more than five loaves and two fish- unless we are to go and buy food for all these people.”

Already their thinking was limited, even though they had seen miracles and had actually been the conduits through which miracles were accomplished on their missionary trips.

Jesus instructed them to have the people sit in groups of about fifty or so.  He took the five loaves and two fish and “looked up to heaven and said a blessing over them.”

He instructed the disciples to distribute the food, and the Bible says they “all ate and were satisfied.” There were even basketfuls left over.

Provision secured. 

Need met. 

More than enough.

He blessed the food and then it became a blessing for the people.  Once again, demonstrating his power, and the ability to meet their physical needs. 

He can take what we have, no matter how small, and multiply it for the sake of his Kingdom.

But he wants us to participate- to be a part of the miracle. 

So, what is our response?

What should the attitude of our hearts be as we follow his example?

~Thankfulness before provision~
~Faith before feasting~
~Bless before the blessing~

You feed them.