The Five Thousand

When the Savior walked on earth, at times his heart was heavy with grief,
For one who died a testament of his life and mission, dispelling disbelief.
Elias had come, prepared the way, so the Savior could minister to all,
He gave his life a testament of Christ who would raise him from the fall.

The Savior desired to mourn alone for John had proved His will,
Departed he with the twelve he called and ordained to fulfill,
His mission on earth they would remain and his gospel truths defend.
Armed with his power and lessons on life they would each depend.

The multitude did follow him of men five-thousand and more,
Though grieving, his heart had compassion, he healed them as before.
He did not forsake them nor ask them to leave, but blessed them all instead.
Healing the sick and wounded in heart as he placed his hands on their head.

But healing their physical and spiritual wounds was not all he would do,
No, he did not send them away hungry, but physically fed them to.
He blessed and brake five loaves of bread and fishes he had two.
Feeding the masses, they were filled when his apostles were through.

His example of love he freely gave, his mercy and grace would be,
Sufficient to own to redeem and absolve all who’d seek for Thee.
His mercy and grace are sufficient with baskets of fragments beyond.
Yes, his atonement and love are lasting and strong as an eternal bond.

Why did the Savior of mankind ask his apostles to count what remained?
Was it to show though he left them behind his power they had obtained?
Or was it to help mend fragmented hearts to learn he’d filled all demands?
Christ had provided sufficient love, mercy and grace with nails in his hands.

His atonement, his body, broken, torn for us, was truly sufficient for all.
He provided far more then we needed to fulfill the effects from the fall.
He gave his all, both body and spirit to heal our wounded souls and heart.
Yes, the Savior provided fragments a plenty his love and grace did impart.

David S. Maughan © 10/24/2021

Matthew: 14:13-21; Mark 6:31-44; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:5-14