Fourth Monday of Lent by Emily Pierce 3/15/21

Scripture Reading: John 6:1-15

"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 6:11 NIV

In this scripture Jesus truly displays selflessness and self-sacrificing actions. The Lord has provided us with an overabundance of food so that all might be filled. He has died on a cross for us to be forgiven, to be free from all sins. Jesus cares so much about each individual living thing that when he knows we need him most, he is always going to be there. In this scripture, Jesus says, “Where should we buy bread for these people to eat?” although he knew what he was planning to do. Jesus took two small loaves of bread for 5,000 people to all share, Jesus supplied holy bread for all of them.

He also exclaimed, “Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted.” Jesus wanted to supply whoever wanted to partake in this holy communion with holy bread, and so he did. Jesus wanted everyone to have a chance to be a part of this feast, so he could make everyone feel loved and cared for. Jesus didn't do this for himself; he wanted and strived to do this so everyone else would be satisfied. This feeling of appreciation and love is what Jesus wants for all of us. He wants us to feel accepted in his image, made full and perfect through him, for us to be free.

Lent is a time of reflection and preparation for Easter. This Scripture shows how Jesus persevered and reflected through a challenge he overcame. More importantly, it demonstrates that Jesus wanted everyone to be accepted and loved, to participate in communion. Keeping all of this in consideration, I ask for you to pray with me:

Dear God,
As we continue our journey through Lent we ask you to help us be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer. We ask you to watch over us in this time of uncertainty and help us to remember your steadfast love you show to everyone. Help us bring love to others and ourselves. God, we ask you to be with those who are mourning during a time of unpredictability and be with the families affected by the Coronavirus. We ask all of this in Jesus' name, Amen.

--Emily Pierce