For the past three Sunday’s we have heard Jesus describe the Kingdom of Heaven through various parables; the Kingdom of Heaven
The thousands of people who followed Jesus were seeking more than a good meal. They wanted healing physically and spiritually. They wanted affirmation and they wanted a tangible sign that God loved them. St. Matthew tells us that when Jesus saw them “his heart was moved with pity for them, and he cured their sick.” After providing them with physical healing, he provided the people with the physical nourishment they needed.
In every interaction Jesus had, he affirmed people. Today’s second reading from St. Paul’s letter to the Romans 8:35, 37-39, is one of the most affirming passages in scripture. St. Paul reminds us that nothing can “separate us from the love of Christ.” None of the things we fear; anguish; distress; persecution; famine; nakedness (poverty); or sword (death) can break God’s fierce and abiding love for us through Christ. Nor can the host of angels, anything happening today or tomorrow, people in power or distance come between the love of Christ and us. Nothing in the universe can “separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” All the miracles of Jesus were accomplished out of this enduring love.
Jesus did not feed the multitudes by himself. Jesus blessed the food, the disciples distributed it. This miracle was for the disciples as much as it was for the hungry crowds. And, this miracle is for us. It reminds us that God’s goodness, generosity, spiritual and physical nourishment and love go far beyond that deserted place by the Sea of Galilee it extends across the whole world, it is here in Peachtree City, Georgia.
God our Father,
Gifts without measure flow from your goodness
to bring us your peace.
Our life is your gift.
Guide our life’s journey,
for only your love makes us whole.
Keep us strong in your love.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen
