How Many Loaves Do You Have?
Scripture Reading — Mark 6:30-44
“How many loaves do you have?” he asked. “Go and see.” When they found out, they said, “Five—and two fish.”
When I am at our grandkids’ home as they pile in after school, I watch them empty their backpacks and then head to the fridge or the cupboard. “I’m hungry,” they cry, and they go looking for a snack. Though there is plenty to satisfy them, they often seem to have trouble finding just the right thing. But after some suggestions from their parents, they figure it out.
The large crowd of people with Jesus had been with him the whole day. Jesus could see that all of these people following him were spiritually hungry and wanted something more. Even his disciples noticed, and they tried to convince Jesus to send them away. But Jesus responded by sending the disciples to see what was “in the cupboard.”
They found that they had a total of five loaves and two fish. Jesus was satisfied with what they brought, and he instructed them to seat the crowd. I wonder what it was like to keep handing out pieces of fish and bread—so much that the leftovers filled 12 baskets!
When we give Jesus what we have, even though it seems small, he multiplies it. Jesus also includes us in his work, setting us on a mission. “Seek and you will find.” And in our shared search, together we find and together we share.
Perhaps today he is asking you what you might find—what are you willing to give so that it might be shared?
Jesus, thank you for asking the hard questions and inviting us into the solution. Help us to see and believe that you can do anything. Amen.
About the author — Beth Fellinger
Pastor Beth Fellinger is a wife, mother, and grandmother who has more than 40 years of experience in pastoral ministry. She and her husband, Barry, have created a missional community in their neighborhood called the Ugly Couch Cafe. From serving coffee at a blue picnic table on their front lawn, to praying with neighbors, to hosting faith gatherings on a weekly basis, the Ugly Couch Cafe has grown—and nothing gives Beth greater joy than introducing people to Jesus.
Start your day with quick daily devotions.
See God's love, power, presence, and purpose in your life every day!