Matthew 14:13-21
New International Version (NIV)
Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand
13 When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place. Hearing of this, the crowds followed him on foot from the towns.14 When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick.
15 As evening approached, the disciples came to him and said, “This is a remote place, and it’s already getting late. Send the crowds away, so they can go to the villages and buy themselves some food.”
16 Jesus replied, “They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.”
17 “We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish,” they answered.
18 “Bring them here to me,” he said. 19 And he directed the people to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. 20 They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. 21 The number of those who ate was about five thousand men, besides women and children.
New International Version (NIV) Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Cindy Rugg shared a focus moment based upon the story of “stone soup”. Together we made an awesome “stone salad” and we had our own “feeding of 40”. In addition to our time in worship, there were lots of laughter and catching up over great food. More than a few adventurous kids and adults enjoyed fishing after their bellies were full from all the yummy food. I’m not sure whether any fish were caught, but I’m pretty sure a good time was had by all!
We also shared in Communion: Breaking bread together is a communal and sacramental act. Sharing a meal is a primary way of creating community. We come together to remember and imitate Jesus’ words and actions. In the sacrament of Communion, Christ satisfies our deepest hunger, heals our brokenness, and binds us together as if one body, one community, and strengthens us for service in the world.
Dwelling in the Word:
Jesus often took time for solitude and prayer.
How often do you take the time to pray and meditate alone? Think about it.
Where are you physically and emotionally right now? Take stock.
Time with God doesn’t have to take long, doesn’t have to be on a mountain, or behind a closed door. Jesus modeled taking time alone with God. It is important in our faith journey to do this intentionally. Time alone with God can be right now while we are together.
Come before God in the quietness, be still.
- Read this passage through: As you read, let the words of the passage wash over you. Do not be concerned with analysis or commentary. Just read.
Doctrine and Covenants 163:10 a-b
Community of Christ (Read Section 163)
10 a. Collectively and individually, you are loved with an everlasting love that delights in each faithful step taken. God yearns to draw you close so that wounds may be healed, emptiness filled, and hope strengthened.
b. Do not turn away in pride, fear, or guilt from the One who seeks only the best for you and your loved ones. Come before your Eternal Creator with open minds and hearts and discover the blessings of the gospel anew. Be vulnerable to divine grace.
- Now, read this passage a second time:
Doctrine and Covenants 163:10 a-b
Community of Christ (Read Section 163)
10 a. Collectively and individually, you are loved with an everlasting love that delights in each faithful step taken. God yearns to draw you close so that wounds may be healed, emptiness filled, and hope strengthened.
b. Do not turn away in pride, fear, or guilt from the One who seeks only the best for you and your loved ones. Come before your Eternal Creator with open minds and hearts and discover the blessings of the gospel anew. Be vulnerable to divine grace.
Reflect:
- What is God calling from you?
- What message are you hearing?
- Finally, read this passage a third time:
Doctrine and Covenants 163:10 a-b
Community of Christ (Read Section 163)
10 a. Collectively and individually, you are loved with an everlasting love that delights in each faithful step taken. God yearns to draw you close so that wounds may be healed, emptiness filled, and hope strengthened.
b. Do not turn away in pride, fear, or guilt from the One who seeks only the best for you and your loved ones. Come before your Eternal Creator with open minds and hearts and discover the blessings of the gospel anew. Be vulnerable to divine grace.
Take a moment or two of silent prayer and reflection
Creator God – We celebrated You today in the midst of Your glorious creation. Thank You for trees that provide shade and shelter, for rain that makes things grow and for lakes that speak peace with their very existence. Thank You for the opportunity to gather in a different place, in a different way, yet feel Your Spirit moving among us. We can thank You enough for this community of believers who love and support one another, celebrating together and crying together. We thank You for those who we’ve known for many years and those who are new friends. We are grateful for the unique gifts that each one brings to share with the group. May we encourage one another in that sharing. May we strengthen one another in our fellowship. Guide and direct our actions in the coming week as we continue to seek to be Your hands and feet in our communities. We pray this in the name of Your Son, Jesus. Amen.