Wednesday 12 June 2024
The day was drawing to a close, and the twelve came to him and said, “Send the crowd away, so that they may go into the surrounding villages and countryside, to lodge and get provisions; for we are here in a deserted place.” But he said to them, “You give them something to eat.” (vs 12-13)
Background
The story we are considering today is sometimes known as 'the Feeding of the Five Thousand,' or 'the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fish'.
A version of the story occurs in all four of the New Testament gospels (see also Matthew 14:13-21; Mark 6:30-34; and John 6:1-15) and there are similar accounts involving 4000 people (see Matthew 15:29-39 and Mark 8:1-10).
The site of Bethsaida is unclear, but it may well have been located on the north side of the Sea of Galilee. Presumably they were actually somewhere in the country, rather than in the town itself. (Although the Greek word used in the early manuscripts is polis which can mean ‘city’, the translation ‘town’ seems acceptable here.)
The incident described seems a very likely scenario. From everything we read about Jesus in the gospels, he was clearly a charismatic figure who attracted large crowds. It certainly doesn’t surprise me that many people were so caught up in the excitement of being around Jesus that they failed to think about their own catering arrangements.
The highlighted verses show the natural concern of the disciples for the material needs of the crowd: food and lodging. While the story may be best known for the miraculous provision for thousands from a small picnic lunch, verses 12 and 13 draw attention to an interesting interaction between Jesus and the 12 disciples. Look at the response Jesus makes to their suggestion that he send the people away: "You give them something to eat." (v. 13)
He seems to be challenging their faith, perhaps in the light of their recent mission trip around the local villages, when they had seen miracles of healing (Luke 9:1-6). However, their response is, not surprisingly, to admit to the impossibility of his request. For them, the problem of provision is beyond their resources; but perhaps it allows Jesus to demonstrate the greater resources that are available through faith.
To Ponder:
- How have you responded when you thought a situation was beyond your ability?
- What other resources do you think God may have that you could access?
Prayer
Lord, when we are faced with others in need of love, support, shelter or food, help us to trust you to provide through your infinite resources. Give us faith to believe that our simple acts of sharing may be multiplied as a blessing to all who depend on you. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd Peter Slee
Peter is a MHA Chaplain.