All ate and were filled.
-Mark 6:42 (NRSV)
JESUS saw the hungry multitude and did not hesitate to place what appeared to be a pittance of food before them. But that appearance was contradicted by God's marvelous abundance. The fishes and loaves miraculously multiplied to satisfy the hunger of the multitude and demonstrate the love of God in the face of human need. We can extend this biblical image to see the contrast between the abundance and generosity of the Lord and the needs of the multitudes of men, women, and children oppressed by evil in our world.
We live in a time of great technological advances, yet millions suffer from massive poverty and marginalization. The world does not seem to be offering loaves and fishes but rather displacement and violence.
But Christians are called away from apathy in the face of this suffering. We are called to be faithful to Christ and the gospel. Therefore, we cannot remain aloof or separate ourselves from the needs that surround us. Jesus fed the hungry long ago, and he calls us to embody the love of God to those who suffer and wait to be fed.
PRAYER...
Dear God, help us to commit ourselves to provide sustenance for those who are hungry in our world. Amen.
THROUGHT FOR THE DAY...
Our generosity demonstrates God's goodwill toward the poor.
PRAYER FOCUS...
The hungry people of the world
