Thursday 16th February
Read John 6:8-10
“Another of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, spoke up, 9 “Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?” 10 Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.” There was plenty of grass in that place, and they sat down (about five thousand men were there).” (NIVUK)
Having realised the magnitude of the task and the cost involved, Andrew presents a servant boy to Jesus with five small barley loaves and two small fish. Barley loaves were the bread of the poor as it was cheaper than wheat, and the ‘appetiser’ fish would make the coarse bread tolerable. Andrew emphasises that these offerings were meagre, describing both as ‘small’ and declaring they will not go far. It is bleak indeed as the sun sets over the scene.
John then tells us what Jesus did – instructing them to sit, or, more accurately, ‘recline’ on the green grass…
“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
3 he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for his name’s sake.
4 Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
6 Surely your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.” (Psalm 23) (NIVUK)
Has the narrative suitably prepared us for overflowing generosity when things look humanly impossible?
