Homily by Deacon Harry Evans

The feeding of the multitudes is the only miracle of Jesus that is recounted in all four gospels. In the books of Matthew and Mark it is reported twice.

Of course the details are different each time…

The number of people fed, the initial number of fishes and loaves and the amount of fragments left over.

Some bible scholars believe that the principal reason for the inclusion of this story in all four gospels may be that it was seen as anticipating the Eucharist and the final banquet in the earthly kingdom.

Despite the difference in the different accounts Jesus’ miracle reflects a strong Eucharistic tone…receiving, blessing, breaking, and feeding.

These accounts look not only forward but backward, to the feeding of Israel with manna in the desert at the time of the Exodus.

And Elisha’s feeding of a hundred men with small provisions… as in Elisha’s miracle, food was also left over after all had been fed.

These miracles were ones that in some contemporary Jewish expectations would be repeated when the promised messiah comes.

In today’s account the Apostles didn’t seem to show much compassion for the people as they suggested that they fend for themselves.

But Jesus had a different idea…And they had to trust that Jesus knew what he was doing.

Jesus’ solution focused on the resources of the people.

The people already had what was needed and Jesus used this means to provide for the hungry masses.

It is the same for us who hunger and thirst for truth.

Jesus has shown that he has the power to feed his people and does the same for us today.

Jesus can take what meager means we possess and transform us and fill us with a spirit that will not leave us wanting.

With plenty left over for all.