Herod put John the Baptist in prison because John had been saying it is not lawful for Herod to have Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife. Then Herod beheaded John when the daughter of Herodias asked for John’s head.

Jesus went to a desolate place when he heard the news. But the crowds followed Jesus there. Jesus had compassion on them and healed their sick. What a wonderful shepherd Jesus is! Jesus also has compassion on us and heals us.

The disciples asked to send the crowd away so they could buy food for themselves. Jesus’ command for them was “They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.” They only had five loaves and two fish. For five thousand, it meant nothing. But Jesus looked up to heaven and said a blessing. He broke the loaves, gave it to the disciples, and they gave it to the crowds. They all ate and were satisfied. There were 12 baskets of left over. How was this possible? Because Jesus is God himself, the Creator. He can heal our sickness. He can provide all our needs. God cares for us and loves us. We will not lack anything with Jesus Christ, the Creator of heaven and earth.
Application: Lord Jesus, thank you for coming to earth from heaven to be our good friend. As we bring our five loaves and two fish to you, use it for your glory.
One Word: Jesus can use our five loaves and two fish to reveal his glory