Invited

Problem or Opportunity

There are many times in life that we may face a situation in our lives that appears overwhelming or in other peoples lives that we feel there is no way to help;

The thing is are we looking at the problem so intently that we are blinded to the opportunity;

Notice in v. 5, I am sure Philip saw the same “multitude” that Jesus saw the difference is Philip saw a problem and Jesus knew the opportunity;

So Jesus asked a rhetorical question to Philip - “Where shall we buy bread, that these may eat?”

Jesus was asking this to see if Philip would focus on the problem or see the opportunity in Jesus;

Philip like many of us, self included, he only looked at the problem and the potential cost associated with the problem;

What “multitude” are you facing today - are you focusing on the problem that it presents or the opportunity through Christ.

Opportunity to Ministry

Isn’t amazing that God, the creator of everything, wants us, imperfect sinners, to be involved in His ministry;

But what does ministry mean;

Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary (Eleventh Edition) Ministry

a person or thing through which something is accomplished

Now we just read that Philip, logically, looked at the problem/cost but now in v. 8 we see Andrew, who saw the same “multitude” looked for an “Opportunity to Minister”;

John 6:8–9 NKJV

8 One of His disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to Him, 9 “There is a lad here who has five barley loaves and two small fish, but what are they among so many?”

While Andrew acknowledged it was not much yet he understood Who provides in abundance;

When presented with an opportunity do you look for the ministry that could be behind it;

What opportunity are you needing to trust Jesus will turn into a ministry?

Ministry to Involvement

While Andrew sought a solution he found “a lad” - a young boy - with five barley;

I want to take a moment and draw your attention to this boy that Andrew is talking about;

He has five barley loaves - barley, while people can eat barley it was eaten primarily by animals because it was not as high of quality as wheat;

Also he had two small fish - some believe to be sardines - which are small for the most part;

So this was most likely this boy came from a poor family and this may have been all he had yet he was willing to give it away;

Now here is the thing the “Ministry to Involvement” may take you out of your comfort zone and at that you have two choices - stress or trust - here Andrew and the boy chose trust;

What are you holding on too that God could us, how is He wanting your involvement in ministry;

Are you willing to let go to see God work?

The Cross

Many in the crowds followed Jesus for what He did - healings - not many followed because Who He is - Savior;

What are looking for in Jesus?