Lent Week 3: Trusting in Who Jesus is
Reflection on Chapter 3 of A Meal with Jesus
In Luke 9:7-20, King Herod asks a haunting question: “Who is this about whom I hear such things?” Rumors swirl—some say Jesus is John the Baptist raised from the dead, others claim he is Elijah or another great prophet of old. But the question of Jesus’ identity isn’t just idle curiosity—it’s the most important question of all. Who is Jesus?
Luke places Herod’s question right before the story of the feeding of the 5,000, as if to say: If you want to know who Jesus is, pay attention to this meal.
Jesus welcomes the hungry crowds, speaks to them about God’s kingdom, and then miraculously provides a feast in the wilderness. He takes five loaves and two fish, blesses them, and feeds thousands, with twelve baskets left over. In this simple meal, Jesus reveals that he is not just another prophet—he is the Christ of God, the Messiah, the long-awaited Savior-King.
The feeding of the 5,000 echoes three major stories in the Old Testament:
Moses and the manna in the wilderness – Just as God provided bread from heaven for the Israelites (Exodus 16), Jesus miraculously provides food for his people.
Elisha multiplying loaves – The prophet Elisha fed 100 men with 20 loaves, and still had leftovers (2 Kings 4:42-44). Jesus’ miracle is even greater—proving he is more than a prophet.
The promise of the Messianic banquet – Isaiah foretold a day when God would prepare a great feast for all people (Isaiah 25:6-9). Jesus is the host of that banquet, offering not just bread, but himself as the true source of life.
When Jesus later asks the disciples, “Who do you say that I am?” Peter boldly declares, “You are the Christ of God.” Jesus is the one who welcomes the outcast, feeds the hungry, and offers the ultimate feast—his very life—so that we may be filled.
For Us TodayThis story challenges us to see Jesus as the true provider—not just of food, but of everything we need. He is the one who satisfies our deepest hunger, not only for bread, but for love, forgiveness, and belonging. It also reminds us that as Jesus’ followers, we are called to join in his mission—feeding the hungry, welcoming the outsider, and offering the hope of Christ to the world.
When we share meals in our homes, church, or community, we are living out the reality of Jesus’ kingdom. Every table can become a place where Jesus is known, grace is shared, and people are welcomed. The miracle of the loaves and fish wasn’t just about filling stomachs—it was a glimpse of God’s coming kingdom, where no one will be hungry, and every tear will be wiped away.
Daily Devotions
Day 1: Who is Jesus?
Primary Scripture: Luke 9:7-9 – “Now Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening, and he was perplexed… ‘John I beheaded, but who is this about whom I hear such things?’ And he sought to see him.”
Secondary Scripture: John 14:9 – “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father.”
For Adults:
Herod is confused. He hears rumors about Jesus—some say He’s John the Baptist returned from the dead, others claim He’s Elijah or a prophet. But Herod, despite his power, can’t figure out who Jesus really is.
The same question lingers today: Who is Jesus? Some say He was a good teacher, a moral leader, or a historical figure. But Jesus is more than that—He is the Christ, the Messiah, the Son of God.
Tim Chester writes, “Jesus doesn’t fit neatly into our expectations. He overturns our categories. He is the King who serves, the Teacher who welcomes sinners, the Savior who dies in our place.” If we want to truly know Jesus, we need to look beyond rumors and assumptions. We need to encounter Him personally—through scripture, prayer, and a life of discipleship.
Reflection Questions:
• How would you describe Jesus to someone who has never heard of Him?
• Are there ways you have misunderstood Jesus in your own life?
• What steps can you take to know Jesus more deeply?
Optional Journal Prompt:
Write down five words that describe who Jesus is to you. Reflect on how your understanding of Jesus has changed over time.
Prayer:
Jesus, I don’t want to settle for rumors about You. Reveal Yourself to me in new ways so that I may know and follow You. Amen.
For Kids:
Bible Story (Paraphrased):
A king named Herod kept hearing stories about Jesus, and he was curious. People said different things about who Jesus was, but Herod didn’t understand.
Activity:
Draw a picture of Jesus. Around the picture, write words that describe Him—like kind, loving, powerful, or friend.
Discussion Questions:
• Who do you think Jesus is?
• What do you love most about Jesus?
Day 2: Jesus Welcomes Everyone
Primary Scripture: Luke 9:10-11 – “He welcomed them and spoke to them of the kingdom of God and cured those who had need of healing.”
Secondary Scripture: Romans 15:7 – “Welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.”
For Adults:
After their mission trip, the disciples return excited to share their experiences with Jesus. But their moment of rest is interrupted—the crowds have followed them. Instead of turning them away, Jesus welcomes them.
The Greek word used here for “welcome” is δέχομαι (déxomai), which means more than just politely receiving someone. It conveys an open-armed embrace, an intentional acceptance. Jesus doesn’t just tolerate the crowd—He invites them in, cares for them, and meets their needs.
In A Meal with Jesus, Tim Chester writes, “Jesus’ meals were acts of grace. He welcomed those whom others rejected.” Jesus still welcomes us today, no matter where we come from or what burdens we carry.
Reflection Questions:
• Have you ever felt unworthy of Jesus’ welcome?
• What does it mean to extend Jesus’ welcome to others?
• How can your home or church become a place of Christ-like hospitality?
Optional Journal Prompt:
Write about a time when someone made you feel truly welcome. How did it change the way you saw yourself?
Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for welcoming me with love. Help me to extend that same love to others. Amen.
For Kids:
Bible Story (Paraphrased):
Lots of people wanted to see Jesus, and instead of sending them away, He welcomed them! He healed the sick and told them about God’s love.
Activity:
Make a “Welcome” sign for your home, decorated with words about Jesus’ love.
Discussion Questions:
• How do we make people feel welcome in our home or church?
• How do you think Jesus felt when He saw all the people coming to Him?
Day 3: You Give Them Something to Eat
Primary Scripture: Luke 9:12-14 – “But he said to them, ‘You give them something to eat.’ They said, ‘We have no more than five loaves and two fish—unless we are to go and buy food for all these people.’”
Secondary Scripture: 2 Corinthians 9:10 – “He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing.”
For Adults:
It’s getting late, and the disciples suggest sending the crowd away to find food. But Jesus surprises them: “You give them something to eat.” The disciples protest—there isn’t enough!
How often do we feel like we don’t have enough? Not enough resources, time, energy, or faith. Yet Jesus calls us to step forward anyway. When we bring our small offerings to Him, He multiplies them beyond what we can imagine.
Tim Chester reflects, “Jesus provides for us in our mission. What we have may seem inadequate, but God’s abundance is always greater than our lack.”
Reflection Questions:
• What are some areas in your life where you feel like you don’t have “enough”?
• How has God provided for you in unexpected ways?
• What small offering can you bring to Jesus today?
Optional Journal Prompt:
Write about a time when you trusted God with little, and He provided much.
Prayer:
Lord, when I feel like I don’t have enough, remind me that You are enough. Multiply what I bring to You for Your glory. Amen.
For Kids:
Bible Story (Paraphrased):
Jesus’ friends were worried because the people had no food. But Jesus told them, “You give them something to eat.” The disciples didn’t think they had enough—but Jesus had a plan!
Activity:
Take a small snack (like crackers) and share them with your family. Talk about how Jesus made a small lunch feed thousands.
Discussion Questions:
• Have you ever shared something small and seen it make a big difference?
• Why do you think Jesus wanted the disciples to help?
Day 4: You Give Them Something to Eat
Primary Scripture: Luke 9:12-13 – “Now the day began to wear away, and the twelve came and said to him, ‘Send the crowd away to go into the surrounding villages and countryside to find lodging and get provisions, for we are here in a desolate place.’ But he said to them, ‘You give them something to eat.’”
Secondary Scripture: James 2:15-16 – “If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace, be warmed and filled,’ without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?”
For Adults:
The disciples see a problem—thousands of people with no food—and their first instinct is to send them away. But Jesus turns the problem back on them: “You give them something to eat.”
Can you imagine their reaction? They must have looked at their small supply and thought, We don’t have enough. We are not enough.
How often do we do the same? We see needs in our communities and feel overwhelmed. But Jesus doesn’t ask us to have all the answers. He asks us to bring what we have—our time, talents, and resources—and trust Him to do the rest.
Tim Chester writes, “Jesus calls us to share what we have, and in His hands, it becomes enough.”
Reflection Questions:
• Have you ever felt like you didn’t have enough to offer?
• What small thing can you give today, trusting that Jesus will multiply it?
• How can we shift from scarcity thinking to trust in God’s provision?
Optional Journal Prompt:
Write about a time when God used something small in your life to make a big impact.
Prayer:
Jesus, help me trust that what I have, in Your hands, is enough. Show me how to serve others with what You have given me. Amen.
For Kids:
Bible Story (Paraphrased):
The disciples saw a hungry crowd and didn’t know what to do. Jesus told them, “You give them something to eat.” They didn’t think they had enough, but Jesus showed them that He can make little things into something big!
Activity:
Help prepare a snack or meal for someone in your home. Talk about how Jesus takes what we give and makes it more.
Discussion Questions:
• Have you ever shared something small and seen it help someone?
• Why do you think Jesus wanted the disciples to help feed the people?
Day 5: More Than Enough
Primary Scripture: Luke 9:14-17 – “And they did so, and had them all sit down. And taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and said a blessing over them. Then he broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples to set before the crowd. And they all ate and were satisfied. And what was left over was picked up, twelve baskets of broken pieces.”
Secondary Scripture: Psalm 23:1 – “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
For Adults:
The miracle of the feeding of the 5,000 is not just about food—it’s about abundance. The people don’t just get a small meal; they eat until they are satisfied, and there are leftovers.
In a world where we often live with a scarcity mindset—always feeling like there’s not enough time, not enough money, not enough energy—this story reminds us that Jesus provides abundantly.
Tim Chester writes, “The kingdom of God is not about making do. It is a banquet, a feast of grace.” God’s provision is not just about scraping by; it’s about more than enough.
Reflection Questions:
• Where in your life do you struggle with a scarcity mindset?
• How have you seen God provide in unexpected ways?
• What does it mean to truly trust in God’s abundance?
Optional Journal Prompt:
Write about a time when you received more than you expected—whether from God, a friend, or a stranger.
Prayer:
Lord, remind me that You are a God of abundance. Help me to trust that You will always provide what I need. Amen.
For Kids:
Bible Story (Paraphrased):
Jesus took the little food they had, blessed it, and made it more than enough for everyone! No one was hungry anymore, and there was even extra food left!
Activity:
Draw a basket and fill it with things you are thankful for—just like the extra food that filled the baskets in the story.
Discussion Questions:
• How does it feel to know that Jesus gives us more than enough?
• What are some things God has given you that make you happy?
Day 6: Who Do You Say That I Am?
Primary Scripture: Luke 9:18-20 – “And he said to them, ‘But who do you say that I am?’ And Peter answered, ‘The Christ of God.’”
Secondary Scripture: Matthew 16:16 – “Simon Peter replied, ‘You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.’”
For Adults:
After all they had seen—healings, miracles, crowds fed—Jesus asks His disciples the most important question: “Who do you say that I am?”
It’s one thing to repeat what others say about Jesus, but another to answer for ourselves. Who is Jesus to you? Is He just a teacher, a good example, or truly your Savior and Lord?
Tim Chester writes, “Jesus is not just a provider; He is the promised Messiah, the One who brings God’s kingdom.”
Peter’s response—“The Christ of God”—is a declaration that Jesus is more than a miracle worker. He is the Savior, the fulfillment of God’s promises.
Reflection Questions:
• If Jesus asked you this question today, how would you answer?
• How has your understanding of Jesus changed over time?
• What does it mean to truly live as if Jesus is the Christ?
Optional Journal Prompt:
Write a letter to Jesus, answering His question: “Who do you say that I am?”
Prayer:
Jesus, You are my Savior and my Lord. Help me to live in a way that reflects who You truly are. Amen.
For Kids:
Bible Story (Paraphrased):
Jesus asked His disciples, “Who do you think I am?” Peter said, “You are the Christ!”
Activity:
Draw a picture of Jesus and write or draw what He means to you.
Discussion Questions:
• If Jesus asked you, “Who am I?” what would you say?
• What is your favorite thing about Jesus?
Day 7: A Banquet for All
Primary Scripture: Luke 9:11 – “He welcomed them and spoke to them of the kingdom of God and cured those who had need of healing.”
Secondary Scripture: Isaiah 55:1-2 – “Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost.”
For Adults:
Jesus doesn’t just provide a meal—He gives a glimpse of the great feast of the Kingdom. The feeding of the 5,000 isn’t just about bread and fish; it points forward to the Messianic Banquet, where all are invited to feast forever in God’s presence.
Tim Chester writes, “This meal in the wilderness is a preview of the kingdom—where the hungry are fed, the broken are healed, and the lost are welcomed home.”
Reflection Questions:
• How does this story give you hope for God’s kingdom?
• What does it mean to live as someone invited to God’s feast?
• How can you invite others into the joy of the gospel?
Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for preparing a place at Your table for me. Help me to live in the joy of Your invitation. Amen.
For Kids:
Activity:
Have a pretend feast and invite your family or stuffed animals. Talk about how everyone is welcome at Jesus’ table.
Discussion Questions:
• How does it feel to know Jesus invites you to His feast?
• Who would you invite to a special meal with Jesus?
Week 3 Playlist: Who Is Jesus?
"Who You Say I Am" – Hillsong Worship (Contemporary Christian) Theme: Jesus' Identity & Our Identity in Him Jesus asks, “Who do you say that I am?” (Luke 9:20). This song reminds us that our identity is found in Christ.
"Way Maker" – Leeland / Sinach (Contemporary Worship) Theme: Jesus' Provision & Miracles Jesus provides miraculously for the crowd, just as He provides for us today.
"Here Comes the Sun" – The Beatles (Secular) Theme: Light Breaking Through, Recognizing Jesus A song of hope that mirrors the disciples slowly realizing who Jesus truly is—the light of the world.
"Break Now the Bread of Life" (ELW 515) (Lutheran Hymn) Theme: Jesus as the Bread of Life A hymn that connects directly to the Feeding of the 5,000 and Jesus as the Bread of Life.
"I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For" – U2 (Secular) Theme: Spiritual Searching A song about longing for deeper truth, much like the disciples wrestling with Jesus’ identity and the crowd seeking something more than just food.
"Praise and Thanksgiving" (ELW 689) (Lutheran Hymn) Theme: Gratitude for God’s Provision A hymn of gratitude, fitting for the moment when Jesus blesses the food and provides for the crowd.
"Boulevard of Broken Dreams" – Green Day (Secular) Theme: Searching for Meaning, Seeking Jesus A song about loneliness and longing—mirroring the disciples trying to grasp Jesus' true identity and the crowd looking for something beyond physical nourishment.
"Christ Be Magnified" – Cody Carnes (Contemporary Worship) Theme: Recognizing Jesus as the Messiah Peter confesses Jesus as the Christ, and this song echoes the theme of lifting Jesus high.
"You Satisfy the Hungry Heart" (ELW 484) (Lutheran Hymn) Theme: The Eucharist & Jesus as True Nourishment A hymn that connects both the Feeding of the 5,000 and Jesus’ invitation to the Eucharist.
"A Million Dreams" – The Greatest Showman Soundtrack (Secular) Theme: Faith, Vision, and Possibility A song of big faith and possibilities—just as a boy’s small offering of bread and fish became a miracle in Jesus' hands.
"O Come to the Altar" – Elevation Worship (Contemporary Worship) Theme: Invitation to Trust Jesus Much like the crowd followed Jesus for teaching, healing, and provision, this song is an invitation to trust Him fully.
"Beautiful Savior" (ELW 838) (Lutheran Hymn) Theme: Worshiping Jesus as Lord and King A hymn that reflects the moment Peter recognizes Jesus as the Messiah and the beauty of Christ’s glory.
Art Connection: Recognizing Jesus in the Miraculous & the Personal
This week’s story invites us to reflect on both Jesus’ miraculous power and His personal invitation to faith. The art activities below explore these themes through creative expression.
For Adults & Older Children (Middle School & Up)
Option 1: "Who Do You Say I Am?" Abstract Portrait
Supplies Needed:
Canvas or thick paper
Paint (or colored pencils, pastels)
Brushes or sponges
Instructions:
Instead of drawing a traditional face, create a symbolic or abstract portrait of Jesus, using color, shapes, or images that express who He is to you.
Use bold, expressive strokes for His miracles.
Incorporate gentle or warm colors for His compassion.
Include words or phrases from Scripture that describe Him (Messiah, Savior, Healer, Bread of Life).
As you paint, reflect on Jesus’ question: Who do YOU say that I am?
After finishing, take a moment to pray about how Jesus has revealed Himself in your life.
Reflection Questions:
Which aspects of Jesus’ identity stood out to you in this process?
How do you personally answer Jesus' question?
How does recognizing Jesus in your life change how you live?
Option 2: “The Loaves & Fishes Table” Sketch
Supplies Needed:
Drawing paper
Pencil or pen
Instructions:
Draw a large table filled with baskets of loaves and fish, representing God’s abundant provision.
Around the table, sketch people receiving the meal—these could be disciples, strangers, children, or even people from your own life.
In the empty spaces, write words that describe what Jesus provides for you (grace, hope, healing, peace).
As you finish, reflect on how Jesus takes what we offer, no matter how small, and multiplies it for His kingdom.
Reflection:
How has God provided for you when you felt you had little to offer?
Who in your life might need encouragement that Jesus provides abundantly?
How can you live as someone who shares God’s abundance?
For Children (Elementary Age)
Option 1: “Jesus Feeds Us” Paper Plate Craft
Supplies Needed:
Paper plate
Crayons or markers
Construction paper
Glue or tape
Instructions:
Draw a big basket on the paper plate.
Cut out small fish and loaves from construction paper.
On each fish and loaf, write a way that Jesus takes care of you (food, friends, family, love, forgiveness).
Glue or tape the loaves and fish into the basket to remind you that Jesus provides for everyone.
Discussion:
How did Jesus turn a small meal into enough food for thousands?
What are some ways Jesus takes care of you every day?
How can we help others like Jesus did?
Option 2: “Who Do You Say I Am?” Mirror Craft
Supplies Needed:
Small hand-held mirror or a piece of aluminum foil (for reflection)
Markers
Paper
Instructions:
In the middle of your paper, tape or glue a small mirror (or shiny foil).
Around the mirror, write words that describe Jesus: Messiah, Savior, Healer, Friend, Son of God.
When you look into the mirror, remember that Jesus asks each of us, Who do YOU say that I am?
Discussion:
Who did Peter say Jesus was?
What do YOU think about Jesus?
How can we show others who Jesus is?
For Younger Children (Preschool & Early Elementary)
“Sharing Jesus’ Love” Handprint Art
Supplies Needed:
Paper
Paint or crayons
Instructions:
Have kids dip their hands in paint and press them onto the paper.
Inside each handprint, write a word or draw a picture of something Jesus gives us (love, food, friends, family).
Talk about how Jesus used the boy’s lunch to share food with everyone, just like He shares His love with us.
Discussion:
Why did Jesus help the hungry people?
How can we share like Jesus did?
What is your favorite thing about Jesus?
Weekly Blessing:
(For individuals or families to pray together)
May you recognize Jesus in both the miraculous and the everyday.May you trust that He provides abundantly, even when your offering feels small.May your heart be filled with faith like Peter’s, boldly declaring that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God.May your eyes be opened to see Jesus at work in your life and in the lives of those around you.And as you go forth this week, may you know that you are loved, sustained, and called by the One who is our Bread of Life, our Savior, and our Friend.
In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen.
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