Virtual Pilgrimage – Tabgha

There is a site on the banks of the Sea of Galilee that is believed to be the very spot where Jesus performed one of his most memorable miracles. In fact, all four Gospel narratives share the same story of this miraculous event. Today, let’s visit Tabgha, the site where it happened.

In the Gospel of Mark, we read that Jesus and his disciples were tired and sought a break from the crowds. Even as they stopped for rest, people kept seeking and following them. So, Jesus suggested they get in a boat and travel to a “deserted place” to have some rest. As they tried to leave, people recognized them and began to travel on foot to the place they were headed. When they finally arrived at their destination, there were 5,000 people waiting there to hear and see Jesus.

I’m sure you all know the rest of the story of how Jesus fed the people with a few loaves of bread and two fish. I grew up knowing the story as the “feeding of the multitude.” I’ve also heard it called, the miracle of the loaves and fishes, or the feeding of the 5,000. But, I think my favorite name for the event comes from the church located on the very site, The Church of the Multiplication.

I love the idea that Jesus didn’t summon food to appear from heaven or to be brought to him from far off lands, he simply took what he had and made more of it. He multiplied it! He took five loaves of bread and two fish, blessed them and shared them with 5,000 people. (And, everyone was satisfied…and there were leftovers to share with others!)

I suppose there are several lessons in these bible verses. But, the one that has always struck me is: Take what you have and share it. You never know how many others it may feed!

This is the reason I work in pilgrimage travel and why I work for Faith Journeys. This is my interest and my passion. I am able, and enjoy, taking the things I know and have experienced personally and sharing them with others. Often, my “loaves and fish” feed others, and they, in turn, share it with their communities. The next thing you know, I’ve fed 5,000! (And, everyone was satisfied…and there were leftovers to share with others!)

[mashshare]