2 Kings 4:42-44

“A man came from Baal-shalishah, bringing food from the first fruits to the man of God: twenty loaves of barley and fresh ears of grain in his sack. Elisha said, ‘Give it to the people and let them eat.’” vs. 42

This little story from the life of Elisha that was passed on in the Hebrew scriptures reminds us of the feeding of the 5000, a story from the ministry of Jesus that was included in each of the gospels. They’re the kind of stories that make us wonder. How is it possible that a few loaves could be multiplied to feed so many? And it is an astounding miracle! But it’s really more than that! Here in concrete terms we are reminded that it is the responsibility of the people of God to care for those who are hungry. Elisha could have simply received the food and used it for himself and his household, but instead he says, “Give the first fruits offering to the people and let them eat.” Over the last decades it has become commonplace in our congregations to take up offerings for the hungry on a regular basis, and it’s doubtful there is any more pleasing way for us to use the gifts of the people. Even though the creation is good and the earth is able to produce more than enough food for all, for one reason or another, millions are going hungry. Thank God for those who have a passion for getting food to the places where it is needed the most!

Thought for the Day: How do I channel my offerings for the hungry?