ONE GOD . . . ONE DESTINY . . . ONE FOCUS

Monday, November 26, 2012

Matthew 14:13-21; Mark 6:30-44; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:1-15

Jesus feeds five thousand ~

This was a big miracle, very important to Jesus' ministry.  It was such a big deal, all four gospels speak about it.  Let's take a look:

Matthew links this to the beheading of John.  When Jesus heard of the beheading, He withdrew into the wilderness.  Mark let's us know that the apostles (the 12 that had been sent out on missionary work) had returned and updated Jesus on their missions.  Luke tells us this miracle took place in Bethsaida (which is located in the region of Galilee.)  John tells us that the Passover was upcoming, so we know this happened in the spring.  John also tells us that a small boy provided the five loaves and two small fish.  All four gospels agree that Jesus had compassion on the people, that five thousand men were fed, and twelve baskets of food were collected after the meal.  They also tell us that the apostles were dumbfounded on how to feed these people, but Jesus was calm and assured. 

I find it interested that Jesus never turns people away.  Even when He was looking for some quiet time, He ministered to the people.  Jesus always put others first.  He met their needs, He comforted them and healed them.  We are to follow His example - put others first.  He also shows us that a deep relationship with God results in a calm confidence.  When you are linked in with God, when you really get that He has your back, when His desires are your desires - there is no need to worry, no need to fret, no need to calculate the impossibility of the situation.  Give thanks to the Lord and trust that He will work all things together for good. 

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