Overflowing Abundance

On their return the apostles told him all that they had done. And he took them and withdrew apart to a town called Bethsaida. When the crowds learned it, they followed him, and he welcomed them and spoke to them of the kingdom of God and cured those who had need of healing. Now the day began to wear away, and the twelve came and said to him, “Send the crowd away to go into the surrounding villages and countryside to find lodging and get provisions, for we are here in a desolate place.” But he said to them, “You give them something to eat.” They said, “We have no more than five loaves and two fish—unless we are to go and buy food for all these people.” For there were about five thousand men. And he said to his disciples, “Have them sit down in groups of about fifty each.” And they did so, and had them all sit down. And taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and said a blessing over them. Then he broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples to set before the crowd. And they all ate and were satisfied. And what was left over was picked up, twelve baskets of broken pieces.
Luke 9:10–17
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Overflowing Abundance
We live in a land of abundance. Food, shelter, and clean water are mostly taken for granted. We just assume we will always have them. Because of this, we can often become complacent in more important matters. Though our physical needs are met, we neglect and even shun the need for spiritual care. In a miracle reminiscent of the manna in the wilderness, Jesus feeds the multitude that have come out to the wilderness to hear Him, not just with food for their bellies, but more importantly, food for their souls. Like the confused apostles, we often face life’s challenges armed only with our sin-starved wisdom and resources. Yet, Jesus is there in those desolate places to feed us with the bread of life. Just as He miraculously fed the 5,000, He is willing also and able to provide for us in time of need. We ask that our Lord would teach us to turn to Him in every time of need, whether it be physical, mental, or spiritual need. Because through Christ, we are strengthened and preserved. Through His Word and Sacraments, we are given the cup of immortality.