The Loaves and Fishes of Giving: A little can go a long way

If you're like me, you might be thinking lately: What can I do to make a difference? What will really help in the face of big and difficult situations like immigration and refugee resettlement, among other issuses?

If you know of the account of the loaves and fishes found in the Christian Bible, then you know that from a young boy's five small loaves of bread and two fish, Jesus fed five thousand people. It was one of the great miracles that Jesus performed. The account states, "There's a young boy here with only 5 loaves and 2 fish, but what good is that with this huge crowd?" Jesus miraculously multiplied the loaves and fish and "They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. The number of those who ate was about five thousand men, besides women and children."

This miraculous account reminds me of the miracle of generosity. Even if you aren't a Christian and aren't familiar with this story, there is something we can all learn from it: "Never judge your problems in light of your resources." I'm certain that little boy probably also thought, "What good are my 5 little loaves and 2 fish with this huge crowd? It probably can only feed 10-12 people!" Sometimes I also think that I can't make a difference with my limited time or financial resources, but the combined power of many people using their limited time or financial resources becomes a powerful force for good in the lives of others.  The sum of ALL of our "loaves and fishes" can make a difference in the lives of more people than we can imagine. So, don't be discouraged by your limited time or financial resources to help! Whatever donation you can give will add up to provide a generous resource to solve some practical concerns of refugees and asylum seekers, like winter clothing for children, baby items and toys, cooking and housekeeping supplies, warm blankets, bus passes and even furniture. Just like the little boy in this biblical story, we can all give what we can and our newest neighbors in our community will be blessed by our generosity. Maybe that is a miracle in and of itself!

Thank you in advance for your gift to THRIVEPittsburgh.org/donate on this GivingTuesday , December 3, 2024!

Pauline Spring

Program Director

THRIVEPittsburgh.org

P.S. You can also choose to help by making a purchase from our Walmart Always Wish List . A Always Wish List include items that are most frequently needed or requested by our families. You can shop online and your gift can be shipped directly to our office location or to your home. You can also find most items in any Walmart store near you, if you choose to personally drop off at our office. However you choose to donate, your gift will be a blessing to a refugee in need! Thank you!