THE SIGN OF HIS PROVISION
John 6:1–15
There is a popular comedian whose routine revolves around enjoying food and eating. He jokes about consuming fast food. Even though he is keenly aware that much of what we get through a drive-through window is unhealthy and low in nourishment, he still partakes.
One funny observation he shares is the joy of finding extra or unseen french fries in the bottom of the bag. He calls them “bonus fries.” The feeling of getting something extra is always exciting, given the situation.
Receiving “a little something extra” in Louisiana is called “lagniappe” (pronounced “lan yap”). We read this week that Jesus calls it “provision.”
Jesus sees our needs. (1–5)
The miracle described in this section is the only one (other than the Resurrection) recorded in all four Gospel accounts.
The feeding of the 5,000 has been taught at every age level in every Christian church thousands of times. While there is no need to spiritualize the text or overstate the obvious, we may have glossed over the most essential aspect of the story.
I have heard (and preached) about this miracle and the little boy’s willingness to give up his lunch to be used by others. Yes, that is a critical part of this story, but it is not the most important. What we should not neglect is the fact that Jesus is aware of our needs.
How He chooses to address and meet them is up to Him, but it is always the best way. Jesus is also motivated by compassion.
We read here that He loves the people and is concerned by what concerns us.
Jesus can work mightily with whatever we trust to His care. (6–11)
That day, the boy had sardines and crackers in his possession. He gave an offering that, on the surface, did not have great monetary value, but it was priceless in the hands of Jesus.
We are too often impressed with the big and flashy; Jesus asks for what we are willing to part with. He will always have the ability to do more with our lives and abilities than we can alone. The most widely used people in the Bible are often unnamed.
This is the case with the boy and his sack lunch. If we are willing to put selfish recognition aside and offer our resources to Jesus, we will be amazed at what He will do.
Jesus provides what we need, not necessarily what we want. (12–15)
Be careful where you take this story regarding your wants or desires. Jesus does not exist to serve our selfish desires like a cosmic Santa Claus or an Amazon wish list. Often those disappointed with Jesus are the same ones who follow Him for selfish reasons.
Too many sit in our pews with the idea of what they can “get out of it.” The question for us is, “What are we putting in?”
Yes, Jesus will meet our needs, but are we taking the time to recognize and worship Him and not the gifts He gives? Each miracle points to Him.
I hope you get bonus fries the next time you get a hamburger, but most of all, do not forget to thank the Bread of Life for your blessings.
EDITOR’S NOTE — The Sunday School lesson outlines are provided by Lifeway.
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi
