"Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish." - John 6:11
When Jesus started to multiply the fish for the crowd to eat, I imagine the disciples were truly stunned, but soon after the shock wore off they probably thought of their LIVES as DIMINISHED.
Most of the disciples were fishermen.
Trained to catch fish.
Dedicated to catch fish.
Lived to catch fish.
Without fish, and their current fishing industry, they would have to learn a new trade and begin a new life and essentially start over.
They sought after fish.
They fought day after day for fish.
They knew the difficult realities of being in the fishing industry, and would laugh at ignorant, unknowing peoples who would hint that their job was easy.
It was their livelihood.
They did it in order to survive.
It was their LIVES.
…then Jesus started pulling them out of a basket.
Like a lot.
Like enough to feed 1000s.
It was seemingly effortless.
All of our greatest accomplishments are simply rubbish compared to the unlimited power and potent move of God. In the shadows of the crowd dining on fish, the disciples probably couldn't help but think about their decision of leaving their old lives of fishing nets. Following Jesus began to be bigger than they could have imagined. They were blessed by leaving their old dreams and goals of fish in the past. They were encouraged to know that by trusting Jesus and making Jesus greater in their lives that they were about to experience an abundant life.
I suppose if any Barley Loaf bakers were in the crowd that day their LIVES would have felt DIMINISHED as well. And thats ok. Jesus being better (slight understatement) at things was good for the disciples to realize. The disciples learned that they needed less of themselves and more of Jesus in their lives.
Jesus is Lord.
He is above all things.
I must become lesser, He must become greater.
I must decrease, He must increase.
I need more of Jesus.
Good stuff! I really had never thought about the disciples' perspective. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteIt's weird how we are called by God to serve at tasks that He is infinitely more qualified for than we are: healthcare workers, teachers, musicians, fishermen, fishers of men. Yet He still calls us. Perhaps, we are most like God when we are stepping into our divine calling. Great post!
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