Passover in Galilee
May 2, 2025 - Friday, Memorial of Saint Athanasius, Bishop and Doctor of the Church
John 6:1-15
Every Gospel recounts the multiplication of bread for 5000 men, yet John’s narrative includes details that set his account apart. One striking detail is the timing. With Passover near, one would expect Jesus to travel to Jerusalem for the feast. Instead, we find Him and His disciples in Galilee. Here, Jesus—portrayed as the high priest—celebrates Passover on the grass, surrounded by His disciples and the gathered crowd, transforming the entire scene into a living temple.
This setting evokes memories of many Eucharistic celebrations held outdoors, where the sun, wind, birds, trees, and bushes all seem to join in a unique chorus of praise to God.
Another notable aspect is the humble contribution of a boy who offers two small, salty fish and five barley loaves. These modest provisions—fit more for the poor and the birds than for the rich—are shared without reservation. It is important to recall that Jesus had earlier resisted Satan’s temptation to turn stones into bread. Instead, He took what little was offered and multiplied it into an abundant meal, ensuring that nothing was wasted.
A third detail is the reaction of the people. They sought to crown Jesus as their king. With 5000 men—comparable in number to a Roman legion—Jesus could have easily challenged Herod’s rule in Galilee, just as Moses had once liberated the Israelites from Egypt. Though these revolutionary thoughts were dangerous, they contained a kernel of truth. Jesus is indeed a new Moses, sent to set us free—not from Roman oppression, but from sin. His freedom, however, is not secured through violence but through the sacrifice of His own life.
Tragically, the people failed to see this distinction. When Jesus refused to be crowned by them, they later chose another leader, one who ultimately led them into a disastrous war against the Romans, resulting in national catastrophe.
This narrative reminds us that God cannot be forced to fulfill our desires. Instead, we are invited to embrace His way—a path that satisfies our deepest hungers and sets us free from the bonds that enslave us. Will we choose to put our trust in Him?