Generosity of the little Boy

Gospel Thoughts*

*Easter Season : 2nd Week - Friday*

*GOSPEL -  Jn 6:1-15*

*First Reading - Acts 5:34-42*

*Generosity of the little Boy*

*1) The Speciality of the Boy*

Among the crowd there was a little boy. But this boy becomes the centre of attraction in the miracle of feeding of the 5000

The boy had only five loaves and two fish with him. He must have brought to eat after some time 

We must appreciate the thoughtfulness in bringing those five loaves and two fish. 

This also speaks about his preparedness for the mission of the Lord

He knew that he would spend the whole day with Jesus, listening to him. So he had prepared himself and had brought some food with him.

*2) The readiness of the boy to share*

He had only little. That was enough for him to satisfy his hunger at one time. 

It was very necessary for him to have this food. It was not that he had much food to share with others 

Still whatever was very necessary for him to have it the noon, was ready to share with others 

When Andrew mentioned about the five loaves and two fish, he immediately gave. There was no resistance from the boy about sharing 

This also speaks about his readiness to share with others. Great of the boy to do such a noble thing 

*3) Boy's name remains unknown*

The Gospel does not mention the name of the boy 

He remains unknown to the reader. The Gospel mentions that he is only a boy 

Such a small boy had a great presence of mind. 

At times children are innocent and through them God works miracles. This is one such great example. 

Since the name is unknown, any body can try to fill this place 

The intention of not naming the boy may be, one such adopt the nature of this little boy and one should try to fill the place of the boy 

Am I ready to take the place of the boy. Am I able to see that level of generosity in my life? 

*4) Five loaves and Two Fish, is Seven - 5+2=7. Is there any speciality in it?*

Biblically number 7 stands for perfection and completeness. 

When we see from this angle, five loaves and two fish became the symbol of perfection and completeness, because with these 7 things Jesus worked a perfect and complete miracles which was able to feed 5000 men 

Where ever there is number 7 in the context of the bible, there is perfection and completeness 

We have one week for creation, 7 sacraments, Peters mention about 7 times forgiveness, 7 churches in the book of revelation etc.

*5) Am I ready to play the role of the Boy?*

There is no doubt that the boy was a great hero in the miracle  in providing the basic necessary food materials

He not only had the food material, but had the goodwill to share it with others 

He is generous, selfless, giving, sharing, and great in helping others. 

If so am I ready to play the role of the boy?

Christian life and discipleship largely depends on the great character of this boy

He is a model for you and me. 

If so, am I ready to imitate him?

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*