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. 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.”   John 6:11-14

It’s an unexpected picnic when Jesus feeds the crowd. In much of Jesus’ ministry, food played a central part—in the miracle of the feeding of the people, in eating together with disciples and sinners, and in his last supper where Jesus promises to continue to be present with his disciples always. Jesus’ meals were ones of abundance and welcome. The feeding of the thousands would have been chaotic and miraculous, satisfying and bewildering. And to complicate matters even more, Jesus offended people because of the care and concern that he had for all people.
 
Family gatherings, eating over the kitchen sink, picnics, potlucks, a simple meal at the end of the day—the meals we eat together or alone are not perfect. Family gatherings sometimes mean family arguing. Church potlucks are not always welcoming to all. Eating alone is not always as satisfying as eating among community.
 
As Jesus fed the hungry people with bread and fish, we are fed at Jesus’ table now. We come to the table as a chaotic and bewildered bunch and leave having been fed and satisfied. In these summer months of picnicking and outdoor eating, how might our meals reflect God’s meal?

Thank you God for the Lord’s Supper. Inspire our meals to reflect your meal. Bless our picnicking this summer. Encourage our sharing food with others. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Contributed by Pastor Becky
Sunday June 5, 2011
Liturgical Year A: Week 28
Liturgical Color: Gold
Sunday Gospel reading:
Seventh Sunday of Easter