TASTE AND SEE part 2 of 6: YOU feed them
When Jesus asks Philip where they can find enough food to feed the 5,000 people who have gathered there, he’s asking the impossible, isn’t he? Philip quickly calculates that even a huge amount of money would be barely enough to give each a little. Before we can criticize Philip for lack of faith, remember that Philip’s calculations are probably accurate.
Jesus uses this occasion to offer a sign, which points to who He really is. Philip may feel helpless and on the spot. This may remind you of how you felt, especially when you want to do God’s will, but can’t – but not by yourself. What Philip is being shown, what we all need to be shown, is that Jesus has power to act in our world, to change things which we can’t.
Look at the way Jesus acts. First, He holds back and invites our cooperation. Andrew brings forward an unexpected, and seemingly inadequate boy, with not enough to help. That’s why Andrew asks, “What good are these for so many?”
Jesus waits for us in the same way. Where and how can you find some way of responding to His call to help with the overwhelming needs of our time? What are the challenges and opportunities that confront you? How do you feel when you look at your family, or maybe at the Church, or at the whole world?
A few possible suggestions come to us from this miracle. First, look within yourself, or around, for an unexpected source of help. Next, don’t feel that you have to deal with everything all at once – even a little bit can make a difference. Now the crucial step: offer the little you have to Jesus, and ask him to provide what you can’t.
There are no guarantees about how Jesus will react. Trusting in His power may be all you have when things are really tough. Expect miracles and wait for Jesus to multiply whatever you offer. Look back in your own life, and give thanks for God’s mighty deeds, when He provided for you in the wilderness, and when He multiplied your offering.
Did you ever feel overwhelmed by what was facing you? How did God help you?
How can you respond to the needs of others around you? What is Jesus doing to help?
What are the “loaves and fishes” that you have to offer?