This is the bread that came down from heaven. Your ancestors ate manna and died, but whoever feeds on this bread will live forever.” John 6 : 58
Bible reading : John 6 : 51 - 58
Thought for the week
We are continuing our journey in the gospel according to John. We have spent a long time chewing over and digesting Jesus’ words, ‘I am the bread of life. ‘
We have heard these words so many times because we need to hear them. We need to fully grasp the life that Jesus offer us - life in all its fullness.
The word Jesus uses for eat in our gospel passage is the word ‘Trogo’ which means munch or gnaw. It is a word that is used of very hungry animals desperate for food!! Not a particularly attractive image but perhaps one that speaks into the heart of our world. We SO desperately need Jesus and the life he gives and we need to acknowledge our need. This is the work of a life time.
I came upon this quote sometime ago. I can’t remember where from, but it sums up beautifully our call to taste and see that the Lord is good.
‘We keep eating and drinking the Mystery, until one day it dawns on us in an undefended moment, “My God, I really am what I eat!”’
Rachel
Prayer for Afghanistan (Christian Aid)
O God of mercy and peace
We hold before you the peoples of Afghanistan;
Be living bread to those who are hungry each day.
Be healing and wholeness to those
Who have no access to healthcare amidst the ravages of the Pandemic.
Be a true home to all who have been displaced.
Be open arms of loving acceptance to those who fear because of their gender, ethnicity, religious or political views.
Be peace to those engaged in armed conflict, and those who live within its shadow.
Turn our hearts and minds to your ways of just and gentle peace;
Open our eyes to see you in all acts of compassionate care.
Strengthen our hearts to step out in solidarity with your suffering people,
And hold us all in your unfailing love.
We pray in the name of Jesus Christ
Who emptied Himself of all but love
In order to bring life in all its fullness. Amen