Jesus' example of prudence in John 6:12: implication for curbing mango wastage in Ogbomoso land, Oyo, State, Nigeria

Abstract

Previous researches on Jesus’ feeding of the multitude in the four Gospels have focused on the miraculous provision for the needy. However little has been done on Jesus’ use of the phrase, “Gather up the fragments….” In John 6:12. The study, therefore, is an exegetical analysis of Jesus’ example of prudence in John 6:12 in comparison to glaring wastage of mango fruits in Ogbomosoland, Oyo State, Nigeria. The work employs both qualitative and quantitative research methods. The researcher observed over a period of three years and personally witnesses how mangoes are being wasted. Eighty copies of two sets of questionnaires were administered t mango farmers (40) and mango consumers (40), while structured interviews were conducted on the agricultural officers (5) and religious leaders (15) residents in the five Local Governments areas of Ogbomosoland in Oyo State, Nigeria. Information gathered was subjected to both content and quantitative analysis. The study affirmed Ogbomosland produces one of the best mangoes in Nigeria and that there is frequent mango wastage in Ogbomosoland during harvest period due to lack of storage and transportation facilities, and ineffective charitable ministry on the part of the Christians who form a high percentage of the residents of Ogbomosoland. To breed a society that is spiritually balanced, physically healthy and economically prudent, the people of Ogbomosoland, especially Christians, should align completely with Jesus’ example of no wastage in whatever form.