“They all ate and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of the broken pieces left over.’ (Matthew 14:20)
When God gives, He always gives enough. He gives enough that we would use His gifts responsibly. When Jesus miraculously fed over 5000 people with 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish, we see nothing went to waste. What was left over was not tossed into the garbage heap but collected, “twelve baskets full.” Though we are not told, it’s easy to imagine that what was left over was given to the many people as they walked home at the end of the day.
If the Lord gives enough why are people unsatisfied? Why are people left to go without? One word: sin. It is because of sin people, certainly including us, want more and more, not being grateful for what the Lord already provides. It is because of sin people, certainly including us, go without. Some people go without because of sinful dispositions and behaviors that they can’t shake; laziness, addictions, and so on. Some people go without because others have prevented them from receiving the Lord’s blessings.
The Christian life, following our Lord Jesus and imitating His example, is marked by satisfaction. We will be thankful to God in plenty and in poverty (Philippians 4:11-13). The Christian life is also marked by generosity (2 Corinthians 9:6-15). We have received God’s riches in Christ and because of that truth we will in turn gladly share what is “left over” from what God has abundantly provides for us. This satisfaction and generosity shows sin will not have power over us.
LET US PRAY:
Heavenly Father, as Your Son multiplied bread and fish for hungry people so too multiply the offerings I bring to support the mission of Your Church as it reaches out with the Gospel and brings hope to those who are caught in sorrow and the web of sin. Help me to always and ever be satisfied in all You provide and all that You have done for me through Christ my Lord. Amen.
Rev. Chris Johnson
