In the world in which I live, I hear many people insinuate there is not enough–time, money, energy, kindness, love, and so much more. The readings today illustrate that was never God’s plan. In 2 Kings 4, Elisha tells his servant to feed 100 people with 20 loaves of barley and fresh ears of grain. His servant balks at the request but Elisha stands by his command, anticipating as the Lord has predicted that there will be some left even after all have eaten. According to the Lord’s word, all ate and there was some left. Psalm 145 has the psalmist singing: You open your hand to feed us, Lord; you satisfy all our needs. All who call on the Lord in truth will satisfy their needs. The Gospel has the well-known story of the five loaves and two fish. Again, all are fed and this time 12 baskets are filled with the leftovers. Why do we think God will not provide enough for us?

When I was in Singapore a few years back, I had the wonderful opportunity to see Corrinne May live. She sang this song Five Loaves and Two Fishes https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fC3FLqDgWRE The story of the boy leaves us wondering who he is and why he stepped forward to give his everything to Jesus. Did he know that Jesus would use his small gift for God’s glory? Why do we make God smaller than reality? Who are we to say God cannot work a miracle? This concept of scarcity where God is concerned does not make sense to me. God is a generous Giver.

What prevents us from trusting that what God gives is more than enough? We play small; we do not share; we whine. We are meant to rejoice in the manna that arrives every morning for our daily needs. Can we like the boy surrender our five loaves and two fishes? Is it possible for us to not hold anything back from God who gave it all to us in the first place? God will satisfy our every need. Can we believe this?

Peace,

Suzanne

Reflection Questions

When have you offered your five loaves and two fishes and been a blessing?
Do you believe that God gives you more than enough for each day?

Prayer

Generous Giver,
my five loaves and two fish
seem inadequate but use them
to feed us all and satisfy our souls.
May you be glorified at each miracle
in life that I can help bring about.
Use me, Creator, to feed the hungry
and to instill a desire to serve you.

Amen.