Jesus provides – always

Mark 8:1-10

¹ During those days another large crowd gathered. Since they had nothing to eat, Jesus called his disciples to him and said, ² “I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat. ³ If I send them home hungry, they will collapse on the way, because some of them have come a long distance.”

⁴ His disciples answered, “But where in this remote place can anyone get enough bread to feed them?”

⁵ “How many loaves do you have?” Jesus asked.

“Seven,” they replied.

⁶ He told the crowd to sit down on the ground. When he had taken the seven loaves and given thanks, he broke them and gave them to his disciples to distribute to the people, and they did so. ⁷ They had a few small fish as well; he gave thanks for them also and told the disciples to distribute them. ⁸ The people ate and were satisfied. Afterward the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. ⁹ About four thousand were present. After he had sent them away, ¹⁰ he got into the boat with his disciples and went to the region of Dalmanutha.

We have to realise that this is the second time Jesus has fed a massive crowd. He’s tired. He has desperately tried to get away with his disciples to rest but the crowds have prevented him every time (see Mark 6:31). 

But rather than resenting them, Jesus “felt sorry for them”. He took the time to provide for them and take care of their needs.

Jesus cares. He really cares – about everything in my life. He cares about my day, my work, my family, my cares, my tears, my past pain, and my future hopes. He cares about our needs, and he will provide – if only we will let him. 

Will you let Jesus provide for you today?

Jesus, I place the “yes” of my faith on the table today. I will come to you, to trust you for all I need. Thanks for loving me. 

Amen

Written by B van Noppen