When they were satisfied, he told his disciples, “Gather up the fragments left over, so that nothing may be lost.” So they gathered them up, and from the fragments of the five barley loaves, left by those who had eaten, they filled twelve baskets. When the people saw the sign that he had done, they began to say, “This is indeed the prophet who is to come into the world.” When Jesus realized that they were about to come and take him by force to make him king, he withdrew again to the mountain by himself. -John 6:12-15 NRSV
I wonder why Jesus asked his disciples to gather up the leftovers. Perhaps these fragments were simply a reminder of this amazing miracle? It reminds me of how there always seems to be residual effects of the working of God. Changes in our lives seem to be a part of that testimony. When we look back we are reminded of His working in our lives.
I think that the ministry of Jesus was scattered with events like this where people, amazed by what he did, wanted to make him their king. Hurting and oppressed people always want an earthly Messiah. They always want fleshly answers to their prayers. Yet the Lord understood that his kingdom, and our kingdom, is not of this world.
Cause us to seek first your kingdom Lord. We pray that it would come today in our lives.
... this devotion is part of an ongoing series on the Gospel of John.
Yes, let His Kingdom come.
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