“Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” John 6:35
“I’m not going to ask you for money.”
We were in Vancouver for a few relaxing days, taking in the sights of the city and having some family fun. A devastating fact of life in any city is homelessness, but this particular homeless guy had a refreshing approach….
“I don’t expect you to just give me money.” He kept pace with us as we crossed the street, his manner noticeably humble and sincere. “I’m just really hungry. I actually need food.”
“What did you have in mind?” my husband asked.
“A loaf of bread would last me a while.”
Something so simple, so basic, so necessary. He could have asked for a burger or pizza, but chose a loaf of bread. We handed over enough change for a loaf, and then watched him disappear in the direction of the food store.
I don’t know if he actually purchased the bread- I like to think in my eternally optimistic little mind that he did! I wondered about his story- his background, family, what had driven him to life on the grimy streets. That bread might last him a few days, but he needed MORE.
How I wished my dad were walking with us- my pastor/ evangelist dad who ALWAYS has Christian literature in his pocket! He would have given more than a loaf- He would have pointed this desperate, hungry man to the One who could truly satisfy. To Jesus, the Bread of Life. Of course, I didn’t think of all this until later. Note to self: always be prepared!
Just as we need our “bread” every day in the form of food for physical nourishment, we need JESUS for our spiritual sustenance. He fills us completely. By feasting on the Word, pouring out our hearts in prayer, resting in Him, taking in all Jesus has to feed us with, we can be completely satisfied.
And with full spiritual bellies, recharged and refueled, we are able to give, live and love as Christ-filled servants.
SO MANY PEOPLE AROUND US ARE DESPERATE FOR BREAD…
THEY JUST DON’T KNOW IT. One taste and they would experience the hope, strength, forgiveness, joy, and peace only Jesus gives.
“Taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him” Psalm 34:8
