The feeding of five thousand is important for understanding who Jesus is, what people need, and the essence of discipleship. The crowd elicits compassion from Jesus, “They are like sheep without a shepherd.” Jesus challenges the disciples by saying, “You give them something to eat.” It’s as though He wants His power to work through them. Jesus multiplies their bread; He uses their hands to feed the crowd; He provides more than enough for everyone. Discipleship is about serving Jesus’ people with the sustenance Jesus supplies. We are called to give to God from what God has provided for us—our money, possessions, time, and abilities.