Scripture Scribbles: August 2, 2026
the Gospel
Matthew 14:13-21
When Jesus heard of the death of John the Baptist,
he withdrew in a boat to a deserted place by himself.
The crowds heard of this and followed him on foot from their towns.
When he disembarked and saw the vast crowd,
his heart was moved with pity for them, and he cured their sick.
When it was evening, the disciples approached him and said,
“This is a deserted place and it is already late;
dismiss the crowds so that they can go to the villages
and buy food for themselves.”
Jesus said to them, “There is no need for them to go away;
give them some food yourselves.”
But they said to him,
“Five loaves and two fish are all we have here.”
Then he said, “Bring them here to me,”
and he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass.
Taking the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven,
he said the blessing, broke the loaves,
and gave them to the disciples,
who in turn gave them to the crowds.
They all ate and were satisfied,
and they picked up the fragments left over—
twelve wicker baskets full.
Those who ate were about five thousand men,
not counting women and children.
the scribble
"Five loaves and two fish are all we have" (Matthew 14:17).
Organizing a May Crowning for homeschooling families was something I considered far beyond my capabilities. Likewise, preparing second graders to receive their sacraments was well outside my comfort zone. Yet I remembered the saying, "God does not call the equipped; He equips the called." I brought Him my loaves and fishes - my love for Mary, my love for the Eucharist, and my love for Reconciliation - and He multiplied them, accomplishing far more than I could have imagined.
As time passed, the challenges became even greater.
Can you unconditionally love and forgive the person who has hurt you so deeply?
Not possible.
"Bring Me your loaves and fishes."
Perhaps I can surrender my desire to hurt this person for hurting me. It may take time. I can begin by showing kindness for just one day, and allow God to take that small offering and make it grow.
Can you trust Me completely and surrender every aspect of your life (your mind, your will, and your heart)?
Not possible.
"Bring Me your loaves and fishes."
When I feel powerless and afraid, I can simply pray, "Jesus, I trust in You," and allow Him to take care of the rest.
Whatever seemingly insurmountable challenge lies before you, all that is necessary is to bring Him your loaves (even if all you can muster is a single crumb) and your fishes. God will do the rest through His infinite love and supernatural grace.
Today’s devotion was written by Karen Molvar
