SCRIPTURE:
Joh 6:11-13 MSG
(11) Then Jesus took the bread and, having given thanks, gave it to those who were seated. He did the same with the fish. All ate as much as they wanted.
(12) When the people had eaten their fill, he said to his disciples, "Gather the leftovers so nothing is wasted."
(13) They went to work and filled twelve large baskets with leftovers from the five barley loaves.
(also see Matt 14:13-21; Mk 6: 32-44; Lk 9:10-17. John's account leaves out the detail that it was the disciples handing out the bread and the fish)
OBSERVATION:
If we had to look at the wish list of most devout Christians, somewhere on top would be the desire for their church to make a significant impact on their city. We all dream of and envision rivers of individuals coming forward to receive Jesus in the services... in the life groups, in the work places, Uni's, schools, sports fields, etc.
What we might not realize is that all of this will require a massive effort on our part. All those people need to be followed up, placed in life groups, discipled, phoned, visited, connected...
Its easy for us to look at this account and think "WOW, how cool is that?"
But did you ever think what it must have been like for 12 young men to personally hand out bread and fish to over 5 000 men, not including the other 10 - 15 000 woman and children?
It must have taken ages!
Now if that wasn't bad enough... when everyone was finished eat... they had a basket full each of left overs to pick-up.
Now that is a loooonnnngggg day of hard work!
APPLICATION:
I must understand that ministry is hard work!
I must never feel like the work is too hard... if I give up 1 000's will miss out an their miracles and provision!
PRAYER:
Lord, help me to work hard for Your kingdom!
May I never look down on the 'work' of the ministry and value other easier things...
I dedicate myself to You Father.
Amen.
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