Begin with two minutes of stillness and silence before God.

Welcome back to our “Salt & Light” journey! Today, let’s dive into the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000. Another story that so many of us have heard time and time again. 

And as a result, it’s another story that so many of us (me included) can tend to overlook.

So, let’s take a fresh look at this miracle and see what the Holy Spirit wants to speak into our lives today.

The story opens with Jesus retreating to a “solitary place” after hearing about John the Baptist’s death. We see the Savior of the world seeking out a moment of peace, but the crowds continue to follow Him. Can you imagine how that must’ve felt? Just needing a moment to yourself, but others continuing to press in? Sheesh.

Well, if you’re the parent of small children, then I’d guess you have a pretty good understanding of what that must feel like.

But instead of reacting with frustration or annoyance (like I do when Henley Grace asks me AGAIN to do a Sing 2 dance party), Jesus has compassion on them and heals their sick. Even in His own moment of grief, Jesus puts the needs of others first. Like yesterday, we see that compassion is what moves our Lord to serve and to heal.

Evening approaches, and the disciples approach Jesus with a practical concern: the people need to eat.

Side note – these are my kind of people.

The disciples suggest sending the crowd away to get food, but Jesus has a different plan. “They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.”

Can’t you just imagine the disciples' faces after He says that? There are only five loaves of bread and two fish. C’mon, Jesus. There’s just no way.

But Jesus takes what they have, blesses it, breaks the loaves and the fish, and gives the pieces to the disciples to begin distributing to the crowds. And here’s the miracle: everyone eats and is satisfied, and they even collect twelve baskets of leftovers! Jesus turns the little they have into more than enough.

What does the feeding of the 5,000 teach us about being salt and light? First, it shows us that the heart of Jesus is to see and care for the needs of others. He’s not distant or indifferent to our struggles; He’s the one who says, “Come to me.” Second, it reminds us that in the hands of our Lord, a little can become a lot. Jesus can take what we have and use it to accomplish amazing things. We may feel inadequate or under-resourced, but in Jesus’ hands, our small offerings can ignite amazing ministry.

So how can we apply this to our lives today? Start by bringing your concerns and needs to Jesus, trusting His compassion and provision. Next, look for opportunities to serve others, even if you feel like you don’t have much to give. Offer what you have – your time, talents, and treasure – and watch how Jesus uses it to bless those around you.

Finally, remember that being salt and light isn’t just about the “big miracle moments.” Many times, it’s the small acts of kindness and service - like the boy who brought his lunch to the Lord - that make the biggest difference.

A kind word. A listening ear. A simple meal shared.

These are the ways we can reflect Jesus’ love into the world.

Take two minutes to reflect in silence.

Reflection:

• How do you typically respond when you see a need that feels too big for you to meet? Do you bring it to Jesus or shy away from it? 
• What are some of the “loaves and fishes” in your life – the small things that Jesus can use to make a big impact in the lives of the people around you? 
• How can you show compassion and love to those around you, even in the midst of your own struggles and challenges? 
• Prayer: Father, thank You for Your compassion and provision. Help me to trust You with my needs and the needs of those around me. Give me the courage and the faith to offer what I have, knowing that You can multiply it to bless others. Show me how to be salt and light, reflecting Your love through my actions, no matter how small they may seem. In Jesus’ name, amen.