“‘Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?’ Jesus said, ‘Have the people sit down.’ There was plenty of grass in that place, and they sat down (about five thousand men were there). Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish.” John 6:5-13

I love this Bible story because it speaks to me of what it means to be “called” by God. Often we feel those who are “called by God” for a specific task are somehow bigger, smarter, or more qualified than we are. We hear stories of dramatic “callings” and wait for God to dramatically “call” us.

I have learned that to be called of God simply means to see a need and feel a desire to respond. It’s that simple. Just like how, in the story above, the little boy saw the need for food. The disciples were talking together about where to get food to feed this crowd. The little boy had a lunch and he offered what he had: five small loaves or buns and two small fish (like sardines). In other words, not much.

The boy’s gesture may have even made the disciples chuckle at his simple faith ? that this small bit of food would make any difference at all. It would have made more sense for the boy to find a friend and share the lunch under a shady tree. Yet he offered it… and in the hands of Jesus, it was blessed and multiplied. A miracle happened because one small boy saw a need and had a desire to respond. Over 5,000 people ate from that small lunch, and there were even 12 baskets of leftovers!

The next time you come face to face with a need and feel the desire rise within you to respond, step forward, and offer your small lunch to Jesus. Don’t shrink back into the crowd, feeling you have too little to offer. Put what you have into Jesus’ hands and watch Him do a miracle. Trust me, I’ve experienced it. The famous quote is true: God doesn’t call the equipped. He equips the called.

Thank You, Father God, that when You bring needs to my attention, I have the opportunity to respond. Thank You that You call me to offer what little I have and simply put it in Your hands. Help me to respond willingly and eagerly and watch You multiply my “lunch” to “feed a multitude.” I praise You as I pray this. In the strong name of Jesus, amen.

Take Action

Has a need stirred you deeply lately? Did it feel too big to respond to? Think of one small thing you can offer in the face of that need. Give it to Jesus as you step forward and watch what He will accomplish through you.