What we have is enough

AM Psalm 61, 62 • PM Psalm 68:1-20(21-23)24-36
2 Samuel 3:6-21 • Acts 16:6-15 • Mark 6:30-46

In our gospel reading today, we have Mark’s account of the feeding of the five thousand. This account is rich with dynamics that can be teased out, but today let’s just be literal. The hour was late, and everyone was so captivated by Jesus they would not leave unless told to do so. I feel the next steps in the story are very telling. The disciples encouraged Jesus to send the people away. Jesus told the disciples to feed the people. The disciples immediately began calculating the cost. Jesus asked them what they had. When they brought what they had, it appeared to be insufficient. Jesus told them to group the people together. He blessed what they had, and all were fed.

There are times when we have to interpret and discern how to apply gospel readings to our lives. Then there are times when it feels like the steps are literally applicable.

When a circumstance is overwhelming, we ask Jesus to make it leave. Jesus’ ministry and example challenges us that we need to take action. We immediately begin assessing the cost (what it would take outside of ourselves and our means). Jesus asks us what we have. In our view, it seems insufficient. Then when we gather with solidarity and purpose, Jesus blesses our needs with providence. The seemingly impossible becomes possible.

The very human part of me wishes I could have seen with my own eyes if when they broke off a piece of fish, another magically appeared. But my head and my heart tell me that the miracle came from the disciples letting go of the idea that they had to procure what they did not have. Instead, Jesus led them to understand that the resources were right there in the community. God blesses what we have, and it is when we come together with open hearts that all are fed.

Written by Dan Robinson

Dan Robinson is the Director of Media Ministries at St. Paul’s, overseeing the streaming of the services online.