"The hand of the Lord feeds us; he answers all our needs."

17th Sunday in Ordinary Time

This Sunday's readings are all about God providing for the needs of his people. The first reading tells of Elisha the prophet trusting in God's word to him saying "They shall eat and there shall be some left over," and then it happens that the bread that they have is enough for the large crowd that is present.

In the Gospel we hear of Jesus doing the same. A large crowd had begun to follow him because of the works he was doing and Jesus wished to provide for their needs. A young boy comes forward with five barley loaves and two fish, but we are told that there are 5,000 men present there. Even with this small amount, we then hear that "Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed them to those who were reclining, and also as much of the fish as they wanted." Despite the doubts of all present, Jesus multiplies the food to the point where there is enough for everyone to eat, and there are even leftovers!

All of this is a reminder to us that God doesn't just provide for us in some passive way just because he made everything, but that God desires to give us what we need and takes delight in it! The Psalm Response says it well: "The hand of the Lord feeds us; he answers all our needs." Let us pray this week that we may grow in trust that the Lord provides. It may not always be as much or exactly how or at the time we wish, but God always provides and delights in doing so.

Want to read the readings for this Sunday'? Click here to find them.