Food, glorious food. There are very few of us, young or old, who do not enjoy a tasty meal, perhaps with a glass of a favourite drink, especially in the company of good friends or family. Within all cultures food is undeniably a major focus of daily activity, not only in its production, processing, selling and purchasing but most importantly in its sharing and enjoying at mealtime, cuppa time or supper time.

I believe that God gave us the gift of food not only for our physical sustenance and survival but also to bring us regularly together in the building and fostering of relationships. So many times in the life of Jesus we see him sharing mealtimes with people, from close friends to strangers and ‘tax collectors and sinners’, from small gatherings to large crowds. It was Jesus’ way of connecting with people on common ground.

The story of Jesus miraculously feeding the five thousand is remarkable on a number of counts:

Jesus’ impact on people in Judea was so great that people in their thousands were willing to drop everything (not even pack a snack) to follow him and listen to his message.

Although focused on the spiritual needs of the crowd Jesus was very aware at the end of a long day of their basic need for food and provided for that.

Jesus transformed five small bread loaves and two small fish into a massive meal (with plenty left over) for a huge crowd. (The message: God provides for us far more than we could ever need)

Although he could easily have conjured loaves and fish from the rocks on the hillside Jesus chose to use the food provided by a young boy to perform the miracle.(The message: No matter who we are, how young or old, God wants to and is able to use our meagre offerings and efforts to have a powerful impact on others)  “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”

 

2 Cor 12:9, John 6:1-11, John 6:35, Phil 4:19, Matt 6:33, 2 Cor 12:9, Jer 29:11