FEBRUARY 27 | LUKE 9:10-17

---

DAILY READING

Luke 9:10-17

---

REFLECTION

You Feed Them!

by Judy Webb

In Luke 9 Jesus’ followers were called Disciples: learners. When they returned from their mission, they were called Apostles: those sent with authority and a message. While still disciples, they were acquainted with the message and the authority in a much better way. Their work in the world taught them much.

Now, having just returned from their work in the world, Jesus offers the disciples a few days of R and R. As they head out alone, what happens? The crowds got wind of it and followed. So, Jesus welcomed them, began teaching and healing those who needed healing. Later in the day, the disciples recognized the people would soon be hungry, so they approached Jesus suggesting he send them to nearby villages for food. How did Jesus respond? “You give them something to eat.” (v.13)

Some portions of scripture will be familiar to us, but even those passages have much to teach if we take the time to study with fresh eyes. Today, I recognized the story of Jesus feeding 5000. But I never noticed that Jesus told his Apostles, “You give them something to eat.”

I know there is always more to the story, and I need only sit with it for a while, to construct a parallel with my life. I need to reflect on a problem, face it and begin applying the lessons from verses 14-17:

· Break your huge problems into little chunks that are easier to manage

Think it through from various angles

· Identify your resources and pray

Prayer is our most powerful tool and could just reveal more answers

· Ask God to provide what you need to accomplish His will

Perhaps you need someone to process this with

· Gather up the leftovers, for there will always be a surplus

When all is done, God will have provided more than was needed

Just when we think we are going up a mountain to rest and refresh, God takes us to our next adventure and reveals another life lesson. What a journey indeed!

PRAYER

Heavenly Father,

Continue to teach us from Your Word. Reveal truths we don't yet understand. Take us by the hand when needed, and set us up on a mountain top to view the world below. For what a sight it is! Amen.

---

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

---

JUDY WEBB

I have been a member of UALC for 26 years and have been writing devotions for this site for about 17 of them. Writing is my passion. As retired staff I still love everything about UALC and its members including my small group.

---