Loving Father, as Jesus saw the vast crowd, his heart overflowed with compassion for them, like sheep without a shepherd, and He taught them at length. When evening came and hunger struck in that deserted place, he took the five loaves and two fish, looked to heaven, blessed, broke, and multiplied them to feed five thousand, leaving twelve baskets full.

Merciful God, stir in me that same compassionate heart. Guide me amid life's deserts, teaching me Your truths and satisfying my deepest hungers—spiritual and physical.

Like the loaves You blessed, multiply my humble efforts in the family, at work and care for the needy. Lord Jesus, make me a shepherd after Your own heart, generous provider for the weary. Renew my strength, fill me to abundance, that I may serve others with grateful joy. Amen.