Thursday 5th June
Read Luke 9:14-17
“(About five thousand men were there.) But he said to his disciples, ‘Make them sit down in groups of about fifty each.’ 15 The disciples did so, and everyone sat down. 16 Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke them. Then he gave them to the disciples to distribute to the people. 17 They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.” (NIVUK
The miracle is astounding, the details reported in a very matter-of-fact manner. A bit of organisation, thanksgiving, a full meal and clean up. The thing that strikes you as read it over again though is just how often the disciples are used as agents of God’s provision. The disciples organise them, the disciples distributed the food and then they cleaned up. The disciples are central to the miracle, somewhat oblivious, but essential nonetheless.
This is the more striking when one considers the pattern for collecting manna in the wilderness wanderings. Each individual was responsible for collecting their own manna and meeting their own needs. There would always be just enough. Those who collected much, and those who collected little, were equally satisfied. This time however, the disciples deliver and there is an abundance left over.
We have no reason to fear that God will not provide for His people.
