Article February 13, 1937 Issue

"How many loaves have ye?"

FREDERICK WILLIAM BOORER

In the account of the feeding of the multitude, given in the fifteenth chapter of Matthew's Gospel, it will be noticed that the disciples or students of the Master's teachings were following closely his every activity. Although on many previous occasions Jesus had furnished proof of his ability to meet immediately any adverse condition for himself or others, these faithful students were caught off guard by the evidence of lack apparent to the senses. They said, "This is a desert place, and the time is now past; send the multitude away, that they may go into the villages, and buy themselves victuals."

The Master instantly reversed these arguments, which were apparently dominant in the thought of his students. "They need not depart," he declared, "give ye them to eat," which statement was intended to assure them that the correct solution to this problem was at hand, and that they themselves possessed the means of solving it. "We have here but five loaves, and two fishes," they said. But the spiritual knowledge of Truth was what Christ Jesus was assuring them was the great essential. And his next instruction to them was, "Bring them hither to me." Their immediate compliance made way for the reception of the spiritual ideas which he knew his Father had provided to refresh, sustain, and maintain all of His children.

How often do we meet with similar circumstances today? Many who are contending with a problem of lack, whether it be lack of health, lack of employment, or lack of money, are bewildered by the insistent suggestions of the carnal mind that they are unable to meet their legitimate needs. "If only I had someone with influence to speak for me," or, "If I could procure more capital for my business," or, "If I could afford to go away, I might be able to regain my health," are some of the arguments to be met and overcome.

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