The gospels of Matthew and Mark both record two separate instances of Jesus feeding multitudes of people. Some skeptics like to argue these were retellings of the same miracle, but the setting and details of each are so different that their argument is without merit and not worthy of further discussion. It is no surprise Jesus performed a similar miracle more than once, because He often repeated miracles such as restoring sight to the blind (Matthew 9:27-30; Mark 8:22-25),
cleansing lepers (Luke 17:12-14; Matthew 8:2-3), healing the paralyzed (Matthew 9:1-7; John 5:5-9), and even raising the dead (Luke 7:11-15; John 11:43-44). We are confident in God’s Word (2 Timothy 3:16), and thus we can be confident that Jesus fed vast multitudes at least twice during His ministry. Then, as now, Jesus wants us to see that no matter how impossible the challenge, He is able to fill all our needs.
One interesting thing we learn from the two accounts is that in the first, Jesus was providing sustenance for a multitude of Jewish people (Matthew 14:13-21), and in the second, for a similar multitude of Gentiles (Matthew 15:32-38). Where someone comes from or what they have done is not important to Jesus. He came to save all people, not those of a particular social standing or ethnicity (Galatians 3:28). Christ came for all who were sick with sin and in need of a Savior (Luke 19:10). When we divide over skin color, nationality, or even political affiliation, we are acting in opposition to the example set for us by Jesus. If we want to look like Jesus, we must put aside any inclinations that do not align with the way He lived (1 John 2:6).
It’s easy to get caught up in our problems and tossed about by our trials (John 16:33). We are so quick to forget the ways Jesus provided for us in the past and lose confidence in His ability to steer us through our present circumstances. Despite seeing Jesus multiply five small rolls and a couple of little pickled fish to feed what had to be over 20,000 people, the disciples were clueless about how they were going to feed a crowd of similar size just a short time later (Matthew 15:33). Shouldn’t yesterday’s miracles fuel today’s confidence?
It’s important to look back at all the ways Jesus has met your needs over the course of your life. Remember the times there was not enough cash to pay the bills, and somehow money showed up from unexpected sources. Or the sickness or injury that went away almost overnight. How about promotions or jobs you thought you would never get but did? Remember the simple things like knowing what to say to someone in need or, best yet, leading someone to Christ. Jesus is always there and, as always, He is able to fill all our needs.
Maybe Jesus has never multiplied food in front of you. Or has He? Jesus proclaimed He is the bread of life (John 6:35), and He multiplies this bread time and again as sustenance for all who believe on His name. This bread, this sustainer of life, never runs out. He is able to fill all our needs and there is always an abundance left over (Matthew 14:20; Matthew 15:37)!
The Lord gives this bread of life in generous portions that far exceed what we could ever want or need. If we have Jesus, we are never in need because we have everything in Him (Philippians 4:19). Don’t let the petty annoyances of this world blind you to such an amazing truth. Remember who He is and what He has done. Take comfort in knowing the bread of life is always more than you will ever need.