John 6:7-15

John 6:7-15 
English Standard Version (ESV)

  Sometimes, we feel like we're the boy -- we've shown up with our meager gifts, uncertain as to what God can do with them, but sure we've got something to contribute to God's efforts.
  More often than not, if you're like me, you feel like you're one of the people in the crowd.  I realize I've shown up unprepared, and while Jesus is at work doing something miraculous, I feel a bit guilty for not having thought ahead to bring my gifts and also uncertain as to exactly what Jesus is going to do or how God is going to provide.  If I'd planned better, I'd have brought something to contribute, but it's too late and Jesus is already at work.
  What's great about this passage is that it illustrates the options we have when we think about God's economy.  In one mindset, we have the option of looking at the resources present and thinking that there is a limit as to what God can do.  If we choose this path, we close our fists around our resources. The other option is to realize that God creates leftovers.  Think about it -- Jesus knew exactly how much would be needed and therefore didn't need to create leftovers.  Jesus was trying to show the abundance of God.  There is enough grace and mercy in God for those we see and for those we do not.  We can let go of our blessings because God multiplies, in the hopes that nothing will be lost.  The boy who gave up his lunch did not go away hungry, and the people who showed up with nothing were fed to their satisfaction, not because they had the resources to purchase, but because God's grace overflowed to the point that there was an overabundance.
  Jesus came to demonstrate abundance.  There is grace and mercy enough for all, and it comes only through a gift.  Do not fret over what you did not bring or prepare -- instead receive with open hands and hearts, so that what is given may flow through you into others.  You will receive, and there will be abundance for all who come, given freely.