Gospel: Mark 8:1-10
His disciples answered him, “Where can anyone get
enough bread to satisfy them here in this deserted place?” Still he asked them,
“How many loaves do you have? They replied, “Seven.” He ordered the crowd to
sit down on the ground. Then, taking the seven loaves he gave thanks, broke
them, and gave them to his disciples to distribute, and they distributed them
to the crowd.
They also had a few fish. He said the blessing over them and ordered them distributed also. They ate and were satisfied. They picked up the fragments left over–seven baskets. There were about four thousand people.
He dismissed
the crowd and got into the boat with his disciples and came to the region of
Dalmanutha.
Having nothing to eat is an indescribable experience that leaves us weak and helpless. When we are hungry, we may find ourselves unable to do the things we normally want or need to do. At times, we even limit our movements because the more we move, the more we feel the pain of hunger. Hunger humbles us. It reminds us of how fragile we can be and how much we need help from others—and from God.
In the Gospel, we see how deeply Jesus understands our human needs. His heart was moved with compassion for the crowd who had stayed with Him for three days and had nothing to eat. He did not ignore their suffering. Instead, He acted with love and mercy, making sure that no one would go home hungry or collapse along the way.
When Jesus asked His disciples, “How many loaves do you have?” He was not only asking about food. He was also inviting them—and now us—to trust that even what seems small in our hands can become more than enough when offered to God. The seven loaves and the few fish were simple offerings, yet through thanksgiving, trust, and sharing, they became a blessing for thousands. Not only were the people fed, but there were also baskets of leftovers, reminding us that God’s generosity is never lacking.
Perhaps Jesus is teaching us how to give—not only from our abundance, but even from what we think is little. Many among us are still going hungry, not only for food, but also for love, understanding, hope, and kindness. When we allow God to use what we have, no matter how small it may seem, He can transform it into something life-giving for others.
Let us not be afraid of the cost of giving. In God’s kingdom, generosity is never wasted. The more we give with love, the more our hearts are filled with grace, peace, and deeper trust in God’s providence.
As we reflect on God’s goodness, let us ask ourselves: Are we willing to offer what we have—our time, our resources, our compassion, and our love—so that through us, God can feed the hunger of our brothers and sisters?— Marino J. Dasmarinas
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