Becky Lund

John 6:9-13

Tuesday, February 27

9 "There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish. But what are they among so many people?" 10 Jesus said, "Make the people sit down." Now there was a great deal of grass in the place, so they sat down, about five thousand in all. 11 Then Jesus took the loaves, and when he had given thanks, he distributed them to those who were seated; so also the fish, as much as they wanted. 12 When they were satisfied, he told his disciples, "Gather up the fragments left over, so that nothing may be lost." 13 So they gathered them up, and from the fragments of the five barley loaves, left by those who had eaten, they filled twelve baskets. – John 6:9-13

"I'm sorry, but I can't. I don't have enough__________." I use this excuse all the time. Maybe not always to others, but certainly to myself. Most often what I don't have is enough time. But, it's also a lack of money, space or skills. If I'm truly honest with myself, it's a lack of confidence. I don't want to do something because I might fail or feel foolish. 

I forget what great works God does with a little. How five small fish and two loaves fed a crowd of thousands with baskets full of leftovers. God doesn't worry about the things we lack. Instead, He knows the amazing things He will do with all that is done in His name. 

It's natural to doubt what we can do; Jesus' disciples doubted frequently. Even so, they strove to follow Jesus' example to serve God and others. God worked miracles and made their little grow into a lot.

When I allow God into my efforts, the things I lack don't matter. God doesn't care what I don't have, but cares what I do with the gifts I've received. God will take care of the rest with lots to spare.

Questions for reflection:

• What excuses keep you from serving God and others?
• What is one way you will include God in your efforts?

Prayer:

Lord God, thank you for all the ways you take my little and turn it into more than enough. Amen