What Jesus Did! 'Hands-on Provision' — Mark 6:42-44

Wednesday, April 20, 2016

All the people ate and were full. After the people finished eating, the followers filled twelve baskets with the pieces of bread and fish that were not eaten. There were about 5,000 men there that ate.
— Mark 6:42-44 NLT
Illustration of Mark 6:42-44 NLT — There were about 5,000 men there that ate.

Key Thought

Mark makes it clear that this was an incredible miracle of provision. People were satisfied. Five thousand ate. Bread and fish were left over even though they started with only 5 loaves and 2 fish. However, we may miss the most important part of the story if we do not pay attention. There are 12 baskets of leftovers; one basket for each apostle. Each of them was able to touch this miracle with his own hands. When we offer Jesus our meager resources, he enables us to use those resources to bless others and we get to have a hands-on experience of his grace.

Today's Prayer

Father, please give me faith to trust that Jesus can make my feeble resources, skills, and intellect more than sufficient to meet the needs of those you want me to serve. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • 2 Corinthians 9:6-8
  • Philippians 4:13, 18-20
  • Matthew 6:24-34

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did is a one-year devotional guide through the gospels, using one short passage each day and following the Gospel in consecutive order. Each devotional consists of a passage, reflection and a prayer which opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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