stretching exercises
“Jesus said to them: ‘There is no need for them to disperse. Give them something to eat yourselves.’ ” —Matthew 14:16
A large crowd, a deserted place, and a shortage of food — Jesus’ disciples recognize that a problem is developing. In fact, they have even worked out a potential solution (Mt 14:15). They want Jesus to fix the problem according to their plan. But Jesus has a different approach. He says, “Give them something to eat yourselves” (Mt 14:16). Jesus wants His disciples to fix the problem according to His plan.
Jesus’ plan was to multiply loaves and fish to feed the hungry crowd. Before He would stretch the food, however, He wanted to stretch His disciples (see Jn 6:6). Jesus increases faith by stretching His followers to be larger vessels able to receive more grace.
You don’t have to wait for a problem to develop before your faith is increased. You can work with Jesus in advance by:
1) repenting of sins so that you may be a larger, “distinguished vessel” (2 Tm 2:21),
2) daily reading of “that gracious word of His which can enlarge you” (Acts 20:32), and
3) frequent reception of the Eucharist.
When Mary said “Yes” to God’s plan, her womb was stretched as the Infant Jesus grew within her. Moreover, her subsequent daily life with Jesus stretched her. As we receive Jesus in Word and Eucharist, we carry His Body within us, and He will stretch us. Open yourself to Jesus, and He will multiply your faith.
Prayer: Jesus, stretch me any way You choose so that I may increase in faith (see Lk 17:5).
Promise: “All those present ate their fill.” —Mt 14:20
Praise: Sarah was a teenager when her mother died. She asked Mary to be her mother (see Jn 19:27). She has experienced Mary’s maternal presence and protection throughout her adult life.
Reference: (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
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