Scripture: John 6:5 (ESV) – “Lifting up his eyes, then, and seeing that a large crowd was coming toward him, Jesus said to Philip, ‘Where are we to buy bread, so that these people may eat?’”
Jesus lifts His eyes and sees the multitude approaching. He is not caught off guard. He knew they were coming. Yet He turns to Philip and asks a question—not to gain information, but to draw out reflection and faith. This moment is not only the prelude to a miracle—it is a test, both gentle and purposeful.
Martin Bucer notes that Jesus’ question serves as an invitation for His disciples to look beyond human limitation. He writes, “Non ex indigentia, sed ex doctrina interrogat”—“He asks not from lack, but to teach.” Jesus is guiding Philip (and the others) to recognize that human resources will never be sufficient, and that dependence must rest in Christ alone.
This verse reminds us that Jesus sees both the need and the opportunity. While the disciples see a logistical problem, He sees a moment to demonstrate the sufficiency of God. The same Christ who lifted His eyes then lifts them now—and He still sees the hungry crowds, the worn-down servants, the overwhelmed disciple. He does not ask us for a solution—He asks us to trust Him for provision.
Reflection Questions:
- Why do you think Jesus asked Philip this question, knowing full well what He would do?
- In your moments of insufficiency, are you more likely to panic or to pray?
- How is Christ inviting you today to trust Him where your resources seem too small?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, You see the need before it arrives, and You ask us not to solve, but to trust. Help me to bring my limitations to You in faith, rather than hiding them in fear. Lift my eyes with Yours, that I may see need not as a burden, but as an opportunity for Your glory. Amen.
This devotional is based on John 6:5, drawing from the pastoral and theological reflections of Martin Bucer’s Latin exposition on John.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 