Dining With JesusSample

A Miraculous Picnic

Imagine a crowd of five thousand people gathered around Jesus, all drawn to Him by His presence. They’ve been listening so intently that they’ve forgotten to eat. Hunger begins to stir, and the disciples suggest sending them away to find food. But Jesus sees this moment as an opportunity to reveal God’s supernatural power.

Three truths about God’s Kingdom shine through this story:

1. Sacrifice invites miracles.
A young boy offers his small lunch: just a few loaves and fish. It seems insignificant, yet giving what little he had was an act of courage and faith. In Jesus’ hands, it becomes enough to feed thousands. When we are willing to surrender even the smallest of our resources, God can transform them into something far beyond what we could imagine.

2. Thanksgiving holds blessings.
Before sharing the food, Jesus gives thanks. Gratitude for what we already have invites God to multiply it. Even in seasons when our resources feel limited, Jesus shows the power of thanksgiving; acknowledging God’s provision also declares our trust that He can increase it abundantly.

3. God’s Kingdom overflows.
Everyone ate, and afterward, twelve baskets of leftovers remained. God doesn’t just meet our basic needs; He gives lavishly, creatively, and generously. These meals become more than nourishment: they offer a glimpse of God’s extravagant grace and care.

Consider your own table. How might you cultivate gratitude in your life? Perhaps pause before meals to give thanks to God, or light a candle and set the table beautifully as a reminder of Jesus’ presence. Who could you generously invite to feast with you this week, joining in God’s mission of abundance and grace?

Prayer

Lord Jesus, I bring You the little I have, trusting You can make it more than enough. Teach me to live with a heart of gratitude, giving thanks before I see the increase. Let my life overflow with Your abundance, so others may taste Your goodness. Fill my table with grace, and let me share it freely.

In Jesus’ name.
Amen.