January 22- What Can Jesus Do With A Fish?

Genesis 44:1-45:28
Matthew 14:13-36
Psalm 18:37-50
Proverbs 4:11-13

Matthew 14 tells of the story of the feeding of the five thousand. As I read the story, I am reminded of that frustration we all face of feeling inadequate. Am I good enough? Do people value me? While the world might suggest we "pick ourselves up by the bootstraps and believe in ourselves," Jesus paints another picture altogether. Jesus (I believe) argues here "No you can't." Jesus tells the apostles that they can't do it, can't make it, can't figure it out. "You feed them" Jesus says to his friends. But then, when all hope is lost, when there are no answers and little confidence can be found, Jesus shows them what any man (or woman) is capable of with God's power. They hand Christ a couple of fish and a few loaves, and Jesus makes a miracle happen. It's amazing what Jesus can do with a fish! Imagine what he could do with a heart. Just consider for a moment what he could do with a servant. Yes, I know we all want to be seen as important and valuable, I get that. Maybe Christ wants us to realize that value is not found in self worth or in ability. Maybe who we are is more than what we have, what our reputation is, and what we can do. Maybe, just maybe self worth comes from Jesus, who shows all people that those who trust in him will see miracles take place.