There are interesting points to note as one meditates on the 'Feeding of the Four Thousand' in today's Gospel reading.

Firstly we see the compassion of Jesus as he looked at the crowd. He could not but reach out to them. On the other hand, we see how the disciples pointed out the practical difficulty involved in getting enough food for the crowd in a desert place. However Jesus challenged them not to push away their responsibility for helping those in need. What about us who are followers of Jesus? Do we respond to the needy ones around us or we prefer not to get involved?

Jesus blessed the bread and broke it before distributing it to the crowd. This action symbolises the Eucharist. It also reflects how such a sharing becomes part of life of the Eucharistic community that unites all, regardless of the differences in background, social status and education as Jesus is for all! This unity is based on the love of Christ.

Unlike this spirit of unity which reflects love, justice, hope and peace, King Jeroboam wanted to bring the people together by forcing them to worship the false gods - the golden calves.

In our services in parishes, are we agents of unity or division? Let us take heed of this reminder that true Christian unity is built on love that brings forth greater sharing and unity as a way of life.