We find Jesus in the midst of a great crowd of hungry people ... so many people the disciples wonder how in the world all would be fed. One small boy offers five barley loaves and two fish. "Then Jesus took the loaves, and when he had given thanks, he distributed them ... they were satisfied ..." (excerpted from John 6:11-12)
Can you close your eyes and see Jesus lift up the loaves and the fish to give thanks. Can you open your heart and feel the inspiration of God? Is this a miracle? ... perhaps the real miracle in this passage is that the risk-taking offering of one small boy inspired the people to share what they had with one another until all were satisfied. This is not a new idea ... many commentators believe this could be the point of the story.
I wonder ... what small child in the world today could inspire us ... those of us who have so much ... to give to those who have so little ... until all are satisfied. Does hunger and poverty bother you? The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) has many projects that address hunger and poverty. Online donations are easy and 100% of your donation goes to the project you choose. Check it out: UMCOR.
Risk-Taking Mission? I guess it depends on what your definition of risk-taking is. Today there are many people for whom this kind of giving is a risk-taking hardship. Maybe you can't give but why not take this moment to pray:
O God of all Creation:
You have cared for the earth, and have filled it with your riches. Abundance flows in your steppes, through the pastures and wilderness. You provide for our land, softening it with showers, bathing it in light, and blessing it with growth.
The hills sing with joy; the meadows are covered with flocks; the fields deck themselves with wheat; and together they glorify your name!
On this occasion of our Thanksgiving, we as a nation take rest from our labors to consider your many blessings. We thank you for our freedoms, and for the opportunity to contribute our skills, our attributes and our values toward the good of society.
We thank you for the mixture of our cultures, blending us into one people under God. Help us to be a light unto other nations, and to further the cause of freedom and justice all over the world.
We remember those who are less fortunate than we. We lift up in prayer the victims of poverty and racism, and all those who suffer from forms of political and economic oppression. Let the word that goes forth from our mouths speak of your peace, and let us proclaim our hope in Christ as Savior of all humankind.
We pray that you will bless all those who gather here, as we have come to experience your presence among us. Give us your guidance, O God, and empower us for your work. For we claim nothing for ourselves, but return all honor and glory unto you, and offer our thanks and praise. Amen.
From "Prayers for God's People"
Thomas P. Roberts, editor
Source of Prayer: http://www.godweb.org/thanksgivingprayers.htm
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