“… He gave thanks, broke bread, and gave it to the disciples…”

Jesus often points to deeper meanings in events and stories.  This account is no different except it starts with a very practical concern for the people that moved Jesus’ heart to pity.  Jesus responded to their needs by curing the sick among them.  By evening, he knows they are too far to go back to their homes for food. Feeding the hungry is typically listed as the first corporal work of mercy and he calls on his disciples to act, although they see no remedy to the situation.  When they offered the five loaves and two fish, did they trust that Jesus would do something with it or did it seem a ridiculous question?  Scripture regularly uses food imagery as a means to communicate God’s loving care and what the kingdom is like.  Jesus also uses such imagery in responding to the people’s hunger; to one where there is an abundance…twelve wicker baskets full.