Scripture: John 6:1-15 (NIV)
Dear Church,
Jesus looked up and saw a great crowd coming toward him, he said to Philip, “Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?” But it was a trick question (It really says that in the scripture–click the link. Verse 6. You’ll see!)
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%206%3A1-15&version=NIV
Often, we believe that Jesus’s ability to provide is limited by how much money his followers have.
I can imagine poor Philip, head on a swivel, looking at the crowd, looking at Jesus, feverishly searching the pockets of his robe and spiraling out, thinking, ‘what is he talking about? We don’t have enough money to feed them! How can he expect me to buy bread for all of these people?’
But of course, Jesus doesn’t expect Philip–or us–to finance the Kingdom of God. God’s abundance can’t be purchased in the marketplace. We don’t have enough money, but that doesn’t mean God’s will can’t be done.
I’ll tell you what I think Jesus does expect of us.
I think he does expect us to recognize the sacred needs around us. The people do need bread. It’s not faithful to deny the brokenness of creation or pass judgment on those who are suffering. We aren’t to explain away empty stomachs.
And I think Jesus expects us to follow the example of the boy in this passage and offer up the little we have to him for his kingdom.
Because when we give what we have in faith, we will make an astonishing discovery:
In the Kingdom of God, we already have more than enough.
We need this word in these days. It is our truth to share–it is our truth to live. I hope you will join me for worship this Sunday at 10am–in the sanctuary or on the live-stream.
Peace,
Pastor Kate
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