Helping Teacher

In my school days, I do not recall often being of much help to my teachers. There were some I liked, and several of whom I had a low opinion. My own learning was often determined by whether or not I liked the teacher. But enough of reminiscences.

In the fourth Gospel, we read of an interesting young boy. he is willing and able to help Jesus. 'Jesus soon saw a huge crowd of people coming to look for him. Turning to Philip, he asked,“Where can we buy bread to feed all these people?” He was testing Philip, for he already knew what he was going to do. Philip replied, “Even if we worked for months, we wouldn’t have enough money to feed them!” Then Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, spoke up. “There’s a young boy here with five barley loaves and two fish. But what good is that with this huge crowd?” (John 6.5-9)

What then follows is the feeding of the 5000, with the disciples playing an important part in passing out the multiplying food. The gospels all focus on the lessons that the disciples learned (or didn't learn) from the incident. But there is no mention made of the young boy, whose sacrifice made the miracle possible.

I often reflect that each day we may encounter a situation in which Jesus wants both to teach us something and to provide miraculous help for someone in need. He has the power to help people without our willing partnership, but he chooses to involve us. Will we make available to him, today, the equivalent of the five barley loaves and two fish? 

Often it is our time which he needs, or our availability to be kind and gracious, or some practical resources. 

I pray that I may be able to help the Teacher today. 

Will you?
Best wishes,

Richard