Come Follow the One Who Multiplies the Small Things

Come Follow The One Who Multiplies the Small Things

Two Remarkable Moments on the Shores of Galilee

Mark 4:35-52 and 5:1-20

A Day in the Life of Ministry

Do you know those days when everything feels overwhelming? When the tasks pile up, and you barely have time to breathe? That’s exactly where this story begins, with Jesus and his disciples experiencing one of those intensely busy seasons of ministry. However, what happens next reveals something profound about who Jesus is and how he cares for people – including you and me.

An Unexpected Crowd Changes Plans

I’ll start with that memorable afternoon by the lake. The disciples had just returned from their mission trips, probably exhausted but excited to share their experiences with Jesus. They needed rest, and Jesus knew this, which is why he suggested they find a quiet place away from the crowds.  Nevertheless, you know how life goes – sometimes plans for peace are interrupted by unexpected demands.

Heart of Compassion

Jesus didn’t show frustration or turn them away when the crowd followed them. Instead, His heart filled with compassion. He saw their spiritual hunger, their need for guidance, and their physical weariness. It’s exactly as He sees each of us today – not as interruptions but as beloved children worthy of his time and attention.

When Little Becomes Much

Imagine being one of the disciples when Jesus said, “You give them something to eat.” It must have seemed impossible with only five loaves and two fish. Yet Jesus took that modest offering, like up to heaven, and transformed the scarcity into abundance. Five thousand men, plus women and children, all fed with plenty left over! It’s a powerful reminder that when we bring our “not enough” to Jesus, he can multiply it beyond our wildest expectations.

Peace in the Storm

The story doesn’t end there.  Later that night, after sending everyone home, Jesus gave his disciples another glimpse of His divine nature. Picture yourself in that boat, fighting against the wind in the dark of night. When you see someone walking on water, your first reaction might be fear. The disciples certainly were frightened. However, Jesus’ words still resonate across the centuries: “Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid.”

 Two Miracles, One Message

What touches me most about these back-to-back miracles is how they show different facets of Jesus’ character. In the first, I see his practical care for human needs – both spiritual and physical. In the second, I can see his supernatural power over nature itself. Yet in both situations, his primary concern was for people, feeding the hungry, calming the fearful, and strengthening the faith of his followers.

Growing in Understanding

The disciples struggled to grasp what these miracles revealed about Jesus, and sometimes we do, too. But that’s okay. Jesus continues to meet us where we are, whether we are facing seemingly impossible situations that need his multiplication, or storms that need his peace.

Finding Hope for Today

Next time you feel overwhelmed by life’s demands or find yourself in circumstances beyond your control, remember these moments by the Sea of Galilee. The same Jesus who multiplied loaves, walked on water, and calmed storms still works in our lives today. He still sees, still cares, and still has power to transform impossible situations into testimonies of His grace.

The Jesus We Need

That’s who Jesus is – the one who takes little and makes it much, who walks through our storms, and who invites us to trust him even when we don’t fully understand. And isn’t that exactly the kind of Savior we need?

Blessings,

Donna Chandler