Feeding the hungry has always been a priority. Without sustenance, man perishes. All seek food. The thief, the righteous, the infant, the politician, every man and every woman, need and look for food. In the Book on belief, the Gospel of John, Jesus fed 5000. (John 6) He did it miraculously. He had no barns or teams of workers to distribute napkins, drinks, and lunches. In his power to do what man cannot do, he made five loaves and two fishes satisfy the crowd.
Later on in the same chapter, Jesus contrasted the bread that only lasts for a little while with the bread that lasts forever. Jesus said that the bread that is from heaven gives life to the world.
What did Jesus say was this wonderful life-giving food? He said it was none other than himself. “I am the bread of life; he who comes to Me will not hunger’. (John 6:35)
In case anyone was confused, Jesus made it clear that he was speaking of himself by twice saying that he is the bread of life. (John 6:41,48) It is not just his wonderful words. It is not just his tender actions of love. He made it clear that His very Person is what sustains the life of man.
Also, in the same chapter, he said something that caused some of his disciples to turn away from him. In fact, even today his words are a problem for many. Jesus said, “He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life”. (John 6:53) Was he calling for cannibalism? Of course not. We are to take him into our lives, not as a morsel of food, but as the essence of life. This is done by placing faith in God’s ability and love as well as turning away from fear and self-protection. Jesus told the crowd in John 6 not to waste time working so hard for that which is only temporary but, rather, to pursue the food that will settle the famished soul.
Belief that he is God incarnate is our soul’s way of eating, and that continues beyond the point of salvation.
Man can be easily fooled into believing that the temporary things will satisfy the internal hunger. Only belief in the finished work of Jesus and his constant presence in our lives can give everlasting life. When he gave himself as a sacrifice for all of humanity, he became the manna sent from heaven that feeds more than 5000. We appreciate your Comments