Following John the Baptist's execution, Jesus responds to fear and grief not with violence but with compassion. In contrast to Herod's deadly banquet, Jesus gathers the crowds, feeds them in the wilderness, and refuses to send anyone away. The miracle reveals the abundant, welcoming kingdom of God and forms disciples to share in Christ's compassion.
Matthew 14:13-21 (10th Sunday after Pentecost) – August 6th, 2023
Jesus took the five loaves and the two fish that had been gathered, the only food that anyone had. He looked up to heaven and gave thanks to God. He broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. Everyone ate and had enough. It wasn’t a miracle that everyone received some bread and fish. It wasn’t even a miracle that there was so much left over. It was a miracle because no one had to leave.
