A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 14:13-21)
Taking the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, he said the blessing, broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, who in turn gave them to the crowds. They all ate and were satisfied, and they picked up the fragments left over– twelve wicker baskets full. Those who ate were about five thousand men, not counting women and children.
In today’s Gospel, we hear about the events that follow the death of John the Baptist. On hearing that news, Matthew tells us, Jesus withdraws by boat to a deserted place. But he’s not alone. The crowds follow him on foot. As he disembarks from the boat, he sees the vast crowd. Moved to pity at the sight of them, he cures their sick. Just as in the first reading, where God provides manna for the Israelites, Jesus provides for the crowd of 5,000 from the multiplication of five loaves and two fish. When God divides, he multiplies so that there is plenty for all.
God, help me today to be among the vast crowd that comes to you for every need. Let me remember to look around and help others approach you or need direction in finding you. Jesus disembarked from the boat, and there the crowd stood before him. Bring me to that place where I cast aside what is unneeded and instead stand before you in need of receiving the true food and true drink of your mercy.
From the responsorial psalm: “One does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes forth from the mouth of God.” Lord, in your mercy, hear me.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.