Monday, July 27, 2026

Scripture

“Jesus said to them, ‘They need not go away; you give them something to eat.’” Matthew 14:16

Reflections

As Christians, we look around and see a world that is so broken and in need; unemployment, child abuse, mental illness, misuse of God’s creation, racism, inequality, poverty, marriages in trouble, etc.  We know we’re called to make a difference, but it’s easy to get overwhelmed and discouraged.  The needs are so great.

Jesus’ disciples also got overwhelmed.  Four thousand men and their families were listening to Jesus teach.  Time passed and they were getting hungry.  All they could find was five loaves and two fish.  But this was when Jesus demonstrated what he alone can do.  He told the disciples to bring whatever they had before him, without holding back.  They did what he commanded.  The bread and fish were multiplied.  All were fed.  There was more than enough.

When we feel overwhelmed by our world in need, Jesus calls us to take whatever we have and lay it at his feet.  The task at hand is not one that we’ll successfully accomplish on our own.  But when Jesus gets his hands in it, he brings about the miraculous.

It’s not all about us and what we think we need to do.  It’s about Jesus and what he desires to do through us.  Simply follow his word.  He’ll surprise us with what he can do.

Prayer

Lord God, thank you for what you can do.  Help me to not get overwhelmed.  I take whatever I have this day and lay it at your feet.  Use it for your purposes.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: Matthew 14:13-21