Where Can We Buy Bread and How Much Will It Cost?

 John 6:1-21 helps shed light on our own needs, and expectations.

How often is it that people "come after" Jesus because of the signs? People observe the good that comes to those who follow Jesus. Expectations are awakened. We want the big things: Healing from horrible diseases; instant money when the house is in foreclosure; a miracle for the child who cannot overcome addictions. Sometimes we get the miracle.

But, how often is it that all someone needs is a simple reassurance that, indeed, Jesus the Christ is present. That presence can get the boat to shore and can calm the grandest of fears. In these stories, our job, like that of the disciples, is to share the Jesus factor, what Jesus has done and continues to do for us. It is to help others "mind the gap" between the momentary optimism of "There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish," and the influx of negativity in "But what are they among so many people?" In between "Here is what little we have" and "Here are the 12 baskets of leftovers," there is the Jesus factor.  

Let's not forget to factor Jesus into our daily equations and situations. Let's not forget to share his good news with others. It means remembering that as our needs are met, we are to share with others.
(Ginger Barfield, Preaching This Week, WorkingPreacher.org, 2012. & Mind the Gap," Alyce M. McKenzie, Edgy Exegesis, Patheos, 2012.)