Right now, my church is involved in Rick Warren’s Bible study entitled, “40 Days in the Word.” In this study Mr. Warren recommends we try to picture ourselves as the people in a Bible passage, and ask what it would be like to be them at that moment.
This past week we were prompted to envision ourselves as the boy with the five small barley loaves and two small fish. Hmmm. What
could possibly be going on in this young man’s mind as he handed over his basket to the men charged with feeding five thousand? First, I’m wondering, did he do it willingly? Well, it was either that or the apostle, Andrew, muscled it out of his hands. Somehow, I’m not seeing a tussle between the men and the boy ending with a torn basket and the food splayed in the dirt, so I’m thinking he did. Though the Bible describes these items as
small, I would guess that, for a family, five loaves and two fish could be an entire meal. Yet he handed them over with no fanfare, knowing its meager proportions could not possibly satisfy the multitude surrounding him. So what would I feel if I were this boy? Can I relate in any way?
You betcha!
Have you ever been faced with a monumental task and felt your ability to meet the needs were a useless effort? I know I have. And yet, if we give our offering to Jesus, He can not only turn it into a sustaining feast for many, but when all is said and done there will be more to spare.
Remember, your work, your ministry, is not yours alone. If you consider it such, at most it will be one meal that will leave all hungry by the next day. But entrusted to Christ, your cup will overflow … by at least twelve baskets full.
Tell us about a time God enlarged your efforts.
Other posts you might like:
What Did Moses Do Anyway?
Should You Strive To Be Only Natural?
The Man Who Inspired a Congregation ... Sorta
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