A miracle of Jesus · Part 13 of 20 · 3 min
Five Loaves and Two Fish
A great many people had followed Jesus to a place beside the lake. He taught them and cared for those who needed help.
The day was passing. The people were far from home, and they needed to eat.
The disciples thought they should send everyone away to find food. But Jesus asked them to help feed the people.
How could they find food for so many?
A boy there had five loaves of bread and two fish. That seemed like very little for such a large crowd.
The boy offered five loaves and two fish.
Jesus asked the people to sit on the grass. There was room to rest and receive the food.
Jesus gave thanks for the food.
Then he shared it so that the disciples could carry it to the people.
Everyone ate until they were satisfied.
There was enough for the crowd. Nobody had to make do with a tiny bite and stay hungry.
Afterward, Jesus asked them to gather the food that was left so nothing would be wasted.
The disciples collected twelve baskets of leftovers.
This miracle shows that Jesus cares when people are hungry.
The boy did not have enough food for everyone, but he offered what he had. Jesus did what the boy could not do.
We can share and avoid wasting food. We can look after what we have and thank the people who prepare our meals.
If someone needs food, an adult can help us find a way to contribute.
Even a small hand can offer a gift. We do not have to wait until we have a great deal to begin helping.
Jesus cares and helps, and we can share his kindness.
Retelling of John 6:1–15.
Supporting reading: The Desire of Ages, chapter 39. Open the book
Talk about it together
- Generosity
- Gratitude
- Care
- What did the boy offer when the crowd needed food?
- How do you think the people felt when they had enough to eat?
- How can you share and avoid wasting food at home?
Activity · 2–5 minutes
Five Imaginary Loaves
Hold up five fingers to remember the loaves, then two to remember the fish. With a grown-up, choose a way to share at your next meal, such as offering someone a portion before taking seconds, and a way to avoid waste, such as serving yourself a little and asking for more if you are still hungry. Remember that the boy offered what he had.
Try it today: I can give thanks for food, share with help, and care for what is left.
More stories with these values
Count and choose
Open the interactive activity or prepare a printable sheet for home, classroom, or family.
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