“Five loaves and two fishes”, the little boy answered, as he offered his parcel to the Apostles. Jesus then proceeded to share the same with five thousand.
In a small ethnic Hawaiian Church in Honolulu, time somewhat stands still. The sense of Ohana (family) permeates, as we worship the Lord with a sweet blend of languages. That sunny Sunday morning, I’m slated to be the preacher. It’s sort of old home week for me, as my early pastoral ministry served a largely Hawaiian cultural context.
Due to a death in the family, worship musicians were on Maui this day. Hence, melodic strums of ukulele, guitar, and bass were silent. A small church, we attempted to sing sans accompaniment. It was feeble, to say it politely. An old upright piano, probably unused for years, sat idly. Spontaneously, Brendalyn P. (as in “Ponilani”, my wife’s meaningful Hawaiian name), uncharacteristically offered, “I can play!” We praised singing "Mele La'i" with heart and harmony.
Scripture reminds, “no one hides their light under a bushel”. In the Body of Christ, we each have something to offer. I am reminded of the classic illustration of two one-armed men clapping.
I wonder, what’s in your lunchbox?