Wednesday 13 November 2024

Psalm 104:24-35

Background
As we read today the story of a large crowd being fed by Jesus and his disciples we might imagine that the disciples faced both frustration and helplessness in the whole situation.

Mark has previously told us both of the disciples’ hectic activity on mission for and with Jesus (6:7-13) and also the grief and fear they must have felt on learning of the death of John the Baptist. It was natural and a sign of wise leadership that Jesus wanted them to have some rest. They needed physical refreshment and a time to process all that was happening. But the crowds followed and compassion for the needs of people took priority on this occasion. I imagine that the disciples were less than pleased that their plans had to change. At least they hoped for respite as the evening drew on.

Their irritation must have turned to incomprehension when, having suggested to Jesus that it was time to draw his teaching to a conclusion so the crowd could get food, he told them to provide it themselves. How were they to do that? Nevertheless they brought what they had and the crowd was fed. Food was even left over.

The feeding of the 5,000 is recounted in all four gospels. In John’s Gospel it carries clear echoes of the provision of manna made by God for his people as they travelled through the desert to the promised land. Mark’s emphasis may be the important lesson that, however little we may think that we have to offer in God’s service, it can be transformed beyond our wildest imagination.

To Ponder:

• How do we balance the needs of those to whom we minister with our own needs for rest and refreshment?
• Have you seen situations where God transformed an offering that seemed small into something amazing?

Prayer
Help me, loving Lord, to hear your call that I should care for your people and to trust you with what little I have to offer. Amen.

Bible notes author: The Revd Dr Donald Ker
Donald Ker is a supernumerary presbyter. Originally from Ireland, he now lives in the West Midlands.