July 16

The Barley Loaves

The king was grieved, but because of his oaths and his guests, he ordered that her wish be granted — Matt 14:9 BSB

It’s not surprising that a disciple asked, of the five loaves and two fish, "What are these among so many?" What little they seemed to offer in feeding such a large crowd! Why even bother bringing this small, meager portion? Surely Christ could feed the people without such humble contributions.

Yet, Jesus asked the disciples to bring the loaves to Him, and He used them. Isn’t it remarkable that the mighty Christ chooses to need us and our little offerings to feed the world’s hunger? But He does—He wants our gifts, and He wants us to help in sharing those gifts. He passed the bread to the multitude through the hands of the disciples. He still passes salvation through His saved ones to those who are lost.

Only one small talent,
Barely worth a mention:
Surely He has no need of this—
O soul, why the hesitation?
He gave you that talent first:
So use it with His power;
In time—who knows?—He may work
A miracle through your gift.

Many hungry souls
Are waiting to be fed,
Needing, though unaware,
The Bread of Life from Christ.
Have you known His love?
Then share it with others!
Receiving blessings, give them out—
No seed remains alone.

When your eyes behold,
The redeemed and ransomed host,
By living waters, on heavenly fields,
By Jesus led along,
Your joy shall be unspeakable,
And your reward, so glorious,
If by your small offering,
One soul is brought to God.