And they had all things common among them, therefore they were not rich and poor, bond and free, but they were all made free, and partakers of the heavenly gift.
[Adapted from Year B: New Testament Sermon & Class Helps, Scott Murphy, Herald House, 2017, p. 100]
It is human nature to draw from past stories or experiences in our effort to make sense of something happening in the present. In many ways, this is what takes place for those who travel to find Jesus at Capernaum after feeding the 5,000 as recorded in the Gospel of John.
The people want more of what they experienced with Jesus. But Jesus knows they are not following him for the right reason. So, he confronts them because he is not willing to be just a miracle-producing gift from God. His purpose is greater, deeper, and life-enduring.
The conversation between Jesus and the people eventually comes to the point where the people pressure Jesus to provide a sign to prove his claim. In this moment of challenge, Jesus draws the people to a deeper awareness that God offers more than bread for the stomach. The true bread that God yearns to give is sent to bring eternal life to the world.
When Jesus offers himself as the bread of life, it is an expression of the intimate relationship Jesus wishes to have with all. When we claim that connection with Christ, we awaken to the reality that we already are living eternally in God’s grace, generosity, and deep love. Then through our lives, we become the incarnation—the living, tangible expression—of the full life Christ offers all.
The One who comes as the “Bread of Life” does so because of the sacredness of each life. The Enduring Principle Sacredness of Creation, when lived daily, awakens us to how God sees us. Even more, it makes us aware of how God cherishes the life of all around us.
Do we need another sign to prove that God cares? The one who came as the bread of life continues to come. Christ is among us, ready to offer that which fills us with love, joy, hope, and peace.
Prayer Phrase
“…the earth is the Lord’s, and all that is in it” (Psalm 24:1).
Spiritual Practice
Flowing Water
If possible, sit where you can hear water—a fountain, stream, the sea, (perhaps a recording of water sounds). Listen to the sound as you thank God for the life-giving, life-shaping power of water. Pray for God’s blessing on all the parched places of the Earth where there is injustice, oppression, violence, and disregard for life. Pray for God’s justice to be released and imagine it flowing over the Earth, restoring righteousness and wholeness. Now, get up and drink a glass of clear, cold water as you pray, “God, let your justice flow through me as a disciple of Christ Jesus.”
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.