Provision

One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to him, “There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are they for so many?” Jesus said, "Have the people sit down.” Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, about five thousand in number. Jesus then took the loaves, and when he had given thanks, he distributed them to those who were seated. So also the fish, as much as they wanted. And when they had eaten their fill, he told his disciples, “Gather up the leftover fragments, that nothing may be lost.” So they gathered them up and filled twelve baskets with fragments from the five barley loaves left by those who had eaten. (John 6:8-13)

Jesus always stands ready to provide. His has unlimited resources, infinite power, and limitless love. His providence extends to the multitude - this is “common grace,” defined by Wayne Grudem as “the grace of God by which he gives people innumerable blessings that are not part of salvation” (Systematic Theology, p. 657). And his grace extends to his followers - it’s not a coincidence that the number of baskets of leftovers equaled the number of disciples. Without a word, Jesus told the Twelve that he was their provider, too.

This Sunday, Lord willing, we’ll take a look at another familiar story: Jesus walking on the water. This time, the disciples are the only audience. No big crowds, just Jesus and his closest followers, twelve men who’ve given up everything to be with him. Take some time to read and meditate on John 6:16-21 (if you have time, read the parallel narratives in Matthew 14 and Mark 6). What did Jesus communicate to his disciples through this miracle? What is he saying to you and me?

If you serve this Jesus, you have a provider - you have a Savior - “who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think” (Ephesians 3:20). Give thanks to him for his abundant, lavish provision for you, in this life and in the life to come.