Division & Multiplication

I have never been a math person. I remember as a kid learning to add, subtract, divide and multiply. I had to memorize multiplication tables and I remember that being foundational to math.  When I entered the business world several years ago, I remember someone telling me that math is “non emotional” – it’s just factual. I’m not always happy with the numbers, but they are what they are.  I won’t comment on Algebra as it was a whole new twist on math for me.

Jesus did some math for His followers. The events leading up to the feeding of the five thousand were momentous. His compassion for the people needing healing and hope was clear.  Even when He was tired, He seemed to find the strength to go on. His disciples were being practical when they suggested to send the crowds home so that they could figure out dinner. I’m sure what happened next stunned them too. Check this out…

⁴¹ Jesus took the five loaves and two fish, looked up toward heaven, and blessed them. Then, breaking the loaves into pieces, he kept giving the bread to the disciples so they could distribute it to the people. He also divided the fish for everyone to share. ⁴² They all ate as much as they wanted, ⁴³ and afterward, the disciples picked up twelve baskets of leftover bread and fish. ⁴⁴ A total of 5,000 men and their families were fed. (Mark 6:41-44 NLT)

I would have loved to have been there to see multiplication in action. I’ve learned to “stretch out a meal” by smaller portions, but the part where the people at as much as they wanted adds to the mystery of this miracle.

This event reminds me of God’s Provision for me. As a follower of Jesus, I know that He cares about me. He pours out His favor upon me. He provides in so many facets of my life. I often take for granted His provision. When I think of our military personnel serving in remote places with “meals ready to eat” (aka MRE), I’m grateful for every meal that I have. When I think of those who are homeless and desperate, I’m grateful for the Lord’s provision for me and I want to divide and help.

The Lord does all sorts of mathematics in my life. He adds. He subtracts. He divides. He multiplies. All that I have is really His. I’m simply His manager.  I’m humbled and grateful for His confidence in me. I have no idea all the ways He’s used the gifts He’s given me to multiply for His Kingdom.

My gifts from the Lord are to be used for His Glory.

My talents from the Lord are to be used for His Glory.

My possessions from the Lord are to be used for His Glory.

Pressing On!

Dwayne