Matthew 15:29-39
Reflect
At first, this seems like a déjà vu (Matt 14), but this is different. Have you noticed the difference between this mass feeding and the other one in the previous chapter? Here are a couple differences: Jesus feeds 4000, not 5000; there are 7 loaves, not 5; there are 7 leftover baskets, not 12; they’re with Jesus for 3 days, not 1. The 5000 consisted of a Jewish audience, while the 4000 involves a Gentile audience.
We noticed that Jesus has sympathy and compassion for the Gentiles, and as a result, exercises great power to once again feed a crowd of people. This demonstrates God’s abundant provision that is not only met spiritually, but physically as well. Without question, this is a powerful reminder for us to trust in God’s provision for our needs whether they are spiritual, emotional, physical, relational and so on. This is also a reminder for us to show compassion to others, reflecting the love of God to those around us who may not have a relationship with Jesus Christ.
It is perhaps the intersection between God’s provision and our responsibility to carry out compassion to others that we see God’s power and love fully displayed.
Apply
Keep a journal and write down moments where God provided for you.
Pray for an opportunity to share those moments with a friend who doesn’t know Christ.
Pastor Nathanael
Pray
- Pray for our childcare team, the children and their families this week. Pray for the Director, Angie Clark.
- Pray for our Lead Team Pastor, Terry Okken and his family.
- Pray for our Missions Ministry Assistant, Oleksandr Lushchyk.
- Pray for our Young Adults Ministry Assistant, Shone Williams.