Scripture Matthew 15:34,37

Jesus asked them, “How many loaves of bread do you have?” They answered, “Seven, and a few small fish.”

All of them ate as much as they wanted. The disciples picked up the leftover pieces and filled seven large baskets.

Observation

The crowd had been with Jesus three days. They were amazed to see mute people talking, the disabled cured, the lame walking, and the blind seeing. So they praised the God of Israel, forsaking all just to be in Jesus’ presence, even food. They were famished.

Not wanting to send them away hungry, Jesus instructs his disciples to feed them. They wonder aloud where they will get enough food out on a mountain. Jesus asks how many loaves of bread they have. They looked around. Seven. After three days out on the mountain, they have seven loaves, a few small fish, and a very large crowd.

Had the disciples brought this food along? Or was it loaves and fishes they found among the crowd? Hunger was the greatest physical need at that moment, including for the one who held the seven loaves and fish. That someone had to forego their lunch, giving it over to Jesus, leaving their own hunger unsatisfied.

This sacrifice let to miraculous bounty! Jesus took the bread and gave thanks. He broke the bread, the disciples distributed it, and 4000 men plus women and children ate as much as they wanted. There were seven large baskets of leftovers.

Application

What am I holding to satisfy my need, my wants and desires, that Christ could use miraculously to satisfy the needs of many, if I were only to let go of it into His hands?

Prayer

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