Devotionals by Dr. M. Craig Barnes
Then Jesus took the loaves, and when he had given thanks, he distributed them...
Philip was overwhelmed. He was one of the disciples who had worked hard for a very long time caring for the crowds. Finally, Jesus said it was time to get some rest. But just when they had settled into their retreat, they looked up to see 5,000 hungry people heading their way. When Jesus saw them, he looked over at Philip and asked, "Where are we to buy bread for these people to eat?" It was just too much for poor Philip, who immediately began to complain about his limitations.
Andrew, another disciple, took a little inventory of the situation and announced that they had a boy there with five loaves and two fish (which seems like a huge lunch for one kid). Andrew then hastily added, "But what are they among so many people?"
Jesus then took their limited resources and gave thanks to God. That's when the miracle started. Notice that Jesus doesn't create bread and fish. Instead, he multiplies what he is given because he is thankful. As the disciples distributed the food, they discovered there was more than enough.
You have limitations, just like all the rest of Jesus' disciples. Someday a crowd of need is going to overwhelm you as well. When that happens, like Andrew, you can count your limitations, and like Philip, you can complain about them. Or like Jesus, you can believe God will do the most miraculous things through anyone with a grateful heart.
-- Craig Barnes