God’s Abundance

Life Notes—July 23, 2009 

“Then Jesus took the loaves, and when he had given thanks, he distributed them to those who were seated; so also the fish, as much as they wanted.”   John 6:11                                   

You probably know this story from the Bible—the story of the loaves and fishes.  Jesus is teaching to a ‘large crowd’ and there is concern about how they are going to feed them all.  There was a boy in the crowd who had five loaves and two fish—seemingly far too little to feed so many.  Yet, Jesus told his disciples to have the crowd sit.  He blessed the loaves and fish and distributed them to the crowd and they ate—as much as they wanted.  

I remember many times, as a younger man, where there was seemingly not enough money to make it to the next payday.  I would eat peanut butter and jelly sandwiches or cereal or anything else cheap and filling to try to help make it through the week.  I would drive my car as little as possible, and then often on fumes.  I would’ve wished for a blessing like Jesus gave over the loaves and fishes to multiply my pitiful resources. 

Then again, have you ever been on a crowded beach, just longing for a place to bask in the warm sun?  Isn’t it interesting how, as long as we can find a place where no one is shading us, there is plenty of sunlight for everyone to receive as much as they want, no matter how many people there are to receive it, day after day after day?  That is how I picture God’s love and attention.  No matter how many of us seek it, there is always enough available for everyone to receive as much as they want, with plenty to spare. 

Needless to say, I never starved.  I never went to bed hungry in my younger days.  Whenever there was a true need there was an adequate provision.  Maybe not what I had in mind, but I was always provided for…from God’s abundance. 

God’s abundance is present at First Church every Sunday.  This week Kara will be preaching at all four services.  Her sermon title is “Miraculous Abundance.” The scripture is John 6:1-14.  Life (Living in Faith Everyday) worship is at 10:45 in Brady Hall.  Traditional worship is at 8:30 and 11:00 in the sanctuary.  Contemporary worship on the west campus begins at 9:30.  Are you thirsty?  Come and drink of Christ’s living water and you will never thirst again. 

Wishing you God’s most abundant blessings!

Greg Hildenbrand

Life Worship Music Coordinator