1 It was one of those days when there was a great crowd of people. They had nothing to eat so he called his disciples.

2 Jesus said: »I am concerned for these people because they continue with me now three days, and have nothing to eat.

3 »If I send them away to their houses with no food they will be weak and faint. Some of them have a long way to go.«

4 His disciples answered, »How could we get enough bread in this desolate place?«

5 Jesus responded: »How much bread do you have?« They said: »Seven loaves.«

6 He made the people sit on the ground. Then he took the seven loaves and gave thanks. He gave the broken bread to his disciples and they served the people.

7 They had some small fish. After blessing them he had them serve the people in the same way.

8 After eating they picked up seven baskets full of food.

9 About four thousand ate. Then he sent them away.