The Little Loaves and Fishes

Samuel clutched his small lunch as he followed the crowd toward the hillside. Mother had packed five small barley loaves and two dried fish for his day's journey. The nine-year-old boy pushed through the throng of people, eager to see the teacher everyone called Jesus.

Hours passed as Jesus spoke words that made Samuel's heart feel warm and light. The sun began to set, and Samuel's stomach growled loudly. He noticed worried looks among Jesus's friends as they surveyed the massive crowd of hungry people.

"Does anyone have food?" asked one of Jesus's disciples, scanning the crowd anxiously. Samuel looked down at his small lunch, wondering if he should keep it for himself. With a deep breath, he stepped forward and held out his bundle. "I have this, sir, though it isn't much."

Jesus smiled warmly at Samuel, taking the humble offering in his hands. After giving thanks, Jesus began breaking the bread and fish into pieces that never seemed to end. Samuel watched in awe as his tiny lunch fed thousands of people until everyone was full. Twelve baskets of leftovers remained, and Samuel's heart overflowed with joy at how his small gift had become something extraordinary.