Christ’s question “How many loaves do we have?” (Mark 8:5a) seems simple, almost a throw-away lead-in before the miraculous feeding of the five thousand. However, within its brevity lies lessons in resourcefulness, faith, and problem-solving. It’s easy to gloss over his question and jump straight to the miracle, but today let’s reflect on why Jesus’ asked, “How many loaves do we have?”
Jesus wasn’t asking this question out of ignorance. He knew the disciples’ resources were meager. His question was a teaching moment, and Christ didn’t waste it. He could have performed the miracle without their input, but instead, he draws them into the process. He prompts them to shift their perspective from focusing on the overwhelming problem (a hungry multitude and limited food) to assessing what they do have, however small it might seem.
How often do we get bogged down by the enormity of a challenge, focusing solely on what we lack – time, money, skills, support – rather than considering what we have? Jesus’ question encourages us to survey our resources, to acknowledge even the smallest starting point.
By asking “How many loaves do we have?,” Jesus invites the disciples to participate in the miracle. He doesn’t just magically produce food out of thin air. He uses what they bring. He is highlighting the importance of collaboration and participation in God’s work. We are not just passive recipients of blessings; we are called to bring our gifts, talents, and resources – however humble – to the table.
While the disciples’ five loaves and two fish were clearly insufficient to feed such a large crowd, their act of offering them to Jesus demonstrated a degree of faith. They acknowledged what they had, however inadequate, and placed it in his hands. This act of trust opened the door for the miracle to occur. It reminds us that faith isn’t just about believing; it’s about acting on that belief, offering what we have to God and trusting him.
One of my favorite quotes is, “The good Lord doesn’t give you a load you can’t tote.” It speaks to God’s assurance that we are never truly alone in our struggles. However, we can expand on its meaning by connecting it directly to Jesus’ question. The “load” we are given might seem overwhelming, just like the hungry multitude seemed overwhelming to the disciples. But by focusing on what we do have, by acknowledging the resources at our disposal (including God’s presence and provision), we find the strength to carry on. It’s not just about God giving us what we need, but also about his empowering us to use what we have to overcome our challenges.
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