The Bible is full of stories about benevolence, and one that’s particularly important to our work is the story of the loaves and fishes. This story demonstrates that compassion, gratitude, and spiritual abundance are the pillars of Christian benevolence, and they inform the character of our mission and activities.
In the story of the loaves and fishes, Jesus’ act began with his compassion. He said, “I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days, and have nothing to eat: and I will not send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way” (Matt 15:32). Here the Master showed the practicality of divine metaphysics in his compassion for the daily needs of his followers.
Next, Jesus asked his disciples to acknowledge what they already had —loaves and fishes. Jesus took these loaves and fishes and gave thanks. Mrs. Eddy asks us, “Are we really grateful for the good already received? Then we shall avail ourselves of the blessings we have, and thus be fitted to receive more” (S&H 3:22-24). Every request for assistance that comes to us is an opportunity to acknowledge the good that is already present. In giving to others, we are availing ourselves of the blessings we have.
Following this gratitude, the loaves and the fishes filled the hungry multitude. “And they did all eat, and were filled” (Matt 15:37). The additional baskets of food that were left over proved the superabundance of God’s supply. In our work, we have seen so many examples of supply coming from unexpected sources, above and beyond what we have given, when our requesters turn to God.
To follow the example of our Master, we approach each request with compassion, gratitude to God, and an acknowledgement of the abundance in God’s kingdom.