Have you ever had to wonder or worry about food? Perhaps you live in an area where water has been hard to come by this year.
The people of Israel in Jesus time knew what it was like to go hungry. Not only did they have to worry about the weather, they also were under control of a foreign government. That meant high taxes for them to pay to the foreign government and also their church and home government taxes. There were many who begged for food because they had little or nothing.
Was it any wonder that the people were so impressed by Jesus when He made enough food for a huge crowd to eat out of a little boy’s lunch? All the people ate to their full. They wanted to take Him and make Him their earthly king. Instead Jesus left.
The next day, Jesus shared some special words with His disciples. He said, “I am the Bread of Life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me will never thirst.” (John 6: 35)
As Jesus went on to explain to the people what He meant, it was clear that He wasn’t talking about earthly food. He was talking about the gift of life itself. This wasn’t just deliverance from earthly strife, it was deliverance from death and hell. Because you and I have sinned against others and against God, we deserve God’s punishment – eternal death.
Jesus was offering them eternal life through Him. And He offers it to you also! How can He make such an offer? Because of His saving work. He was crucified and died to forgive your sins and was resurrected three days later – conquering death.
Jesus said, ”And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” (John 6: 40)
This is an incredible promise! Your Savior knows your fears, needs, and troubles. He offers you life in His name.
“I am the Bread of Life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me will never thirst.”
—John 6:35