The story of Jesus feeding the 5,000 has struck me in a whole new way in light of battling Covid Pneumonia, the tragic loss of dear friends, and life as we knew it in many ways before Covid hit.

Jesus, therefore lifting up His eyes and seeing that a great mulitude was coming to Him said to Philip, “Where are we to buy bread that these may eat?” And this He was saying to test him; for He Himself knew what He was intending to do. John 6:5-6

Jesus was completely aware. He saw the need. He knew what the day would bring and what He was going to do.

In Mark 6:37 Jesus’ disciples told Jesus to send them away so they can go into town to buy something to eat. He said, “You give them something to eat!” “Feed the people!”

5000 people being hungry was not a surprise to Him. He didn’t have tables all set up in advance, or call in the vendors for the days event, but He would not send them home hungry.

To know our Lord knows everything even before it happens, can either be a confusing and tough reality in light of such difficult times, or bring a lot of comfort, or a little of both. To know our Lord knows all but still allows very difficult and painful things to happen……..I have dealt with this with the loss of my son, the loss of friends and now with my own confusion about what is now suddenly not going on that we were planning on. I am sure many of you can relate.

But the truth is- He is full of compassion and sees and knows it all.

Here are a few of the names of God in Hebrew to hold onto that declare this truth. One is Yahweh Jireh- Our God who sees. It means what God foresees is needed, He has already provided for. Genesis 22:14

Another name El Roi- Our God who sees all; nothing is hidden from His sight- This name was revealed when He went to Rahab, who fled Abraham and Sarah because of being mistreated, and He met her there in the desert. Genesis 16:13-14

Another powerful name El Elyon- God Most High- Sovereign, all- knowing, omnipresent, omnipotent God. Daniel 4:34

This story brought comfort to me and a feeling of my feet standing firm on a solid and level rock beneath me.

Covid did not catch God off guard. He knows all and what He is doing and going to do. His eye is upon the sparrow, how much more is it upon us, His beloved children?

Thank you Father God, that you see all, and know what You intend to do, for each and every one of your children.