In this season, with food all around us, have you turned to God through Jesus Christ for the only food that truly satisfies?
During the holiday season, many people’s calendars fill up with food-centered events — family gatherings around big tables, special cookies or treats passed down through generations, and opportunities to help others enjoy a special meal to fill their hungry stomachs. You may have just attended one, or you might be planning one in the near future.
During His time on earth, Jesus was keenly aware of people’s need for food to sustain them — and of their deeper desire for an abundance that would truly satisfy. In John chapter 6, we find the true story of a large crowd surrounding Jesus after seeing Him perform miraculous wonders. Recognizing their hunger, He took the opportunity to reveal who He truly is. A small amount of food was found, and Jesus miraculously multiplied it so that thousands of people could eat and be filled.
Afterward, Jesus moved on to a new place, and unsurprisingly, the crowds followed Him. At this point, He said something pointed to them — words that also apply to many of us today who have some interest in Jesus.
The people had come to Him for another loaf of bread, a quick fix to an immediate problem, and then likely to return to life as usual. Jesus told them — and us — not to expend our energy merely chasing after the next meal. Instead, we should seek the “food” that leads to eternal life, which only He can provide.
Now he has the crowd’s attention and can command it with an offer of eternal life. They wisely ask the question that we need to ask, “What must we do to accomplish the deeds God requires?”
The One standing before them — the same One who reigns in heaven now — had demonstrated His power and authority to offer something we all desperately need, far more than a meal. We all need to do what God requires and find the satisfaction, sustaining power, and hope that it offers. Jesus’ answer to the question is, “This is the deed God requires—to believe in the one whom he sent.”
Jesus has proved his claim to be the Bread of Life in this story and through his death and resurrection. Every person who calls out to Him in faith for the forgiveness of sins that separates us from a holy God, which is what God requires of us, will receive eternal life.
In this season, with food all around us, have you turned to God through Jesus Christ for the only food that truly satisfies?
If you have questions about this offer and would like someone to reach out to you, text TRUEGOSPEL to 97000.
