The story of the two fishes and five loaves of bread is the only one that appears in all four gospels, although there are some slight differences. For example, John 6:9 mentions the involvement of the small boy. This story happened just after the death of John the Baptist.
When Jesus heard that his cousin was beheaded, he did what some of us do when a friend or relative dies-he went off to a quiet place to think, pray and grieve. Jesus wasn't the only person who was mourning the death of John the Baptist. His followers were also in mourning. They had lost their powerful leader. If he could be killed, then no one was safe-not even Jesus. They were seeking a new leader.
This story shows a contrast between two different parties-a party hosted by Herod and a party hosted by Jesus. Herod's party was one of lust, cowardice, rash words, hatred and murder-all because he was so enamored by the dancing of his step-daughter that he made a rash promise that led to the death of John the Baptist. In contrast, Jesus' party as shown by the miracle of the loaves and fish is one that leads people to freedom and life.
The miracle of the loaves and fish is not so much what Jesus does as what happens among the crowd in Jesus' presence. The miracle shows us God's character, the nature of the coming Kingdom, and the nature of the Kingdom in our hearts when it has transformed us. Our heavenly Father, as the head of the household, establishes the household, sustains and liberates us and guides us to spiritual fulfillment. The foundation of God's household is the duty he imposes on us to care for each other.
Jesus always seems to be asking more of us than we have to give-as spouses and parents and students and workers and on and on. He calls on us to love, even when love is difficult; to forgive, even when we have been wronged; to stand fast and firm on our principles, even when it mean standing alone. And those things are not easy to do. After all, we are not Jesus, and our powers are not unlimited, as his were.
Jesus bore witness to our spiritual duty to care for each other. There is enough for everyone when we live in right relation and harmony, but in reality there are millions of people who live in poverty and are starving.
What can we do? Well, we can do what Jesus did. Jesus took the small amount of food that was offered and used it to do his work by using it as an example for the disciples and for us. When we work together and use what we have to do God's work, God will multiply what we offer. Little is enough when God is involved.
Following Jesus is a radical lifestyle. Today, Jesus asks us if we are willing to do the same. Are we willing to give up some of what we have, that others might not go hungry? Are we willing to give out of what God has given to us?
Thanks to Craig Condon a Lay Minister from Canada, we are able to read this nice reflection. you can view the complete are by reaching craign by email at craig.condon2@ns.sympatico.ca
Peace…
Five Plus Two Does Not Equal Seven
9:10 PM
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