Mark 6:35-44 | Psalm 23:4-6
The disciples’ first concern is rarely if ever noted from this feeding of the crowd. Their concern wasn’t as much that there were a lot of people. It was that there was a lot of people and seemingly no food to be had. It was an isolated place.
Today, fears abound in the world concerning a lack of resources. Whether it’s climate change, overpopulation, or the destruction and overconsumption of the earth’s resources, there is no shortage of messages from which to pick your fear. Many of these concerns are noteworthy and humanity has much to do to become better stewards of God’s creation.
But the answer is not to be found in fear.
This might be a different take on this passage for many. But as you read the story of Jesus making way for more than enough to be had by all, consider the different vantage points of him and the disciples.
Mark 6:35-44
Late in the day, his disciples came to him and said, “This is an isolated place, and it’s already late in the day. Send them away so that they can go to the surrounding countryside and villages and buy something to eat for themselves.”
He replied, “You give them something to eat.”
But they said to him, “Should we go off and buy bread worth almost eight months’ pay and give it to them to eat?”
He said to them, “How much bread do you have? Take a look.”
After checking, they said, “Five loaves of bread and two fish.”
He directed the disciples to seat all the people in groups as though they were having a banquet on the green grass. They sat down in groups of hundreds and fifties. He took the five loaves and the two fish, looked up to heaven, blessed them, broke the loaves into pieces, and gave them to his disciples to set before the people. He also divided the two fish among them all. Everyone ate until they were full. They filled twelve baskets with the leftover pieces of bread and fish. About five thousand had eaten.
Psalm 23:4-6
Even when I walk through the darkest valley,
I fear no danger because you are with me.
Your rod and your staff—
they protect me.
You set a table for me
right in front of my enemies.
You bathe my head in oil;
my cup is so full it spills over!
Yes, goodness and faithful love
will pursue me all the days of my life,
and I will live in the Lord’s house
as long as I live.
Prayer
God,
Thank you for the resources you provide. I confess that there are times I let human fear rule my decision-making. Help me to be knowledgeable about the resources of our good earth, to respond in good care and stewardship. But lead me in your love for creation and people.
By your spirit & in Christ,
Amen.