» ‘I have compassion on the multitude, because they have now continued with Me three days and have nothing to eat. . . .’ Then His disciples said to Him, ‘Where could we get enough bread in the wilderness to fill such a great multitude?’ » (Matthew 15:32, 33).
FOR THREE DAYS the multitude in Decapolis, captivated, had listened to the words of Jesus. For three days they had witnessed His powerful works. «He has done all things well,» was the testimony that circulated among the astonished crowd. «He makes both the deaf to hear and the mute to speak.» «And they glorified the God of Israel» (Mark 7:37; Matthew 15:31).
But, after three days, they had no more food. Where would they get enough food to feed thousands of people? In the midst of this crisis, Jesus gathered His disciples and said, «I have compassion on the multitude, because they . . . have nothing to eat» (Mark 8:2).
These are the things the Lord does that arouse both amazement and admiration. For days Jesus has been healing, teaching, and preaching, almost relentlessly. And in the midst of all this activity, He is also concerned that people haven’t eaten? I don’t know what you think, but a God who cares whether or not there’s food on my table has already won my heart!
And while He reacts compassionately, how do the disciples react? They ask, «How can one satisfy these people with bread here in the wilderness?» (Mark 8:4). What kind of a question is that! At best, it reveals a very bad memory; and at worst, disbelief. Did they forget so quickly that Jesus had already fed a larger crowd with five loaves and two fishes? Besides, who said they were supposed to find food for so many people?
The Lord did not expect the disciples to feed the multitude, but they did learn that He can do wonders with how little we have when, in faith, we put that in His hands. For this reason, He asked them, «How many loaves do you have?» And they said, «Seven, and a few little fish» (Matthew 15:34). Then He took the seven loaves and fishes, «gave thanks, broke them and gave them to His disciples; and the disciples gave to the multitude. So they all ate and were filled» (vv. 36, 37).
If you are going through severe trials right now, remember that the Lord already knows what you are going through and that in time, He will give you the way out. But moreover remember, that you, too, can be an instrument of blessing for others in need, if you place in God’s hands what little you have and believe that He can multiply it.
Thank You, Lord, for supplying all my needs. Today, I give You the few talents I have, knowing that in Your hands, what little I have will be multiplied and then some. What a privilege to be an instrument of blessing for others who are also in need!