Reflect today on the precious gift of even a small faith

When Jesus looked up and saw that a large crowd was coming to him, he said to Philip: "Where can we buy enough food for them to eat?" He said it to test him, because he himself knew what he would do. John 6: 5–6

God always knows what he will do. He always has a perfect plan for our lives. Always. In the passage above, we read a snippet from the miracle of the multiplication of loaves and fish. Jesus knew that he would multiply the few loaves and fishes they had and feed over five thousand people. But before he did, he wanted to test Philip, and so he did. Why does Jesus test Philip and sometimes test us?

It's not that Jesus is curious about what Philip will say. And it's not like he's just playing with Philip. Rather, he is taking the opportunity to allow Philip to manifest his faith. So in effect, Philip's "test" was a gift for him because it gave Philip the opportunity to pass the test.

The test was to let Philip act on faith rather than just human logic. Of course, it's nice to be logical. But very often the wisdom of God replaces human logic. In other words, it takes logic to a whole new level. It takes him to a level where faith in God is brought into the equation.

So Philip, at that moment, was called to offer a solution given the fact that the Son of God was there with them. And the test fails. Emphasize that two hundred day wages would not be enough to feed the crowd. But Andrew somehow comes to the rescue. Andrew claims there is a boy who has some loaves and fish. Unfortunately he adds, "but what are these for so many?"

This small spark of faith in Andrew, however, is enough faith for Jesus for the crowds to recline and perform the miracle of the multiplication of food. Andrew seems to have had at least a little idea that these few loaves and fishes were important to mention. Jesus takes this from Andrew and takes care of the rest.

Reflect today on the precious gift of even a small faith. So often we find ourselves in difficult situations where we don't know what to do. We should strive to have at least a little faith so that Jesus has something to work with. No, we may not have the full picture of what he wants to do, but we should at least have a little idea of ​​the direction God is leading. If at least we can manifest this little faith, we too will pass the test.

Lord, help me have faith in your perfect plan for my life. Help me know you're in control when life seems out of control. In those moments, may the faith that I manifest be a gift for you so that you can use it for your glory. Jesus I believe in you.