The Pun
The Prayer
This morning I wonder what it means to consume the Bread of Life come down from heaven (John 6:33).
To consume the Bead of Life is to simultaneously fear and find safety in His power:
“Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him! Oh, fear the LORD, you his saints, for those who fear him have no lack!” (Psalms 34:8-9)
To consume the Bread of Life is to heartily take on the will and work of God, entwining our desires and efforts with His:
“Meanwhile the disciples were urging him, saying, “Rabbi, eat.” But he said to them, “I have food to eat that you do not know about.” So the disciples said to one another, “Has anyone brought him something to eat?” Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work. Do you not say, ‘There are yet four months, then comes the harvest’? Look, I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see that the fields are white for harvest.” (John 4:31-35)
To consume the Bread of Life is to enter the covenant relationship with Christ in which we needfully enjoy His mercy:
“Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body.” And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, “Drink of it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” (Matthew 26:26-28)
To consume the bread which is God’s word is to fearfully take refuge in the God who speaks it, to do His will expressed therein, and to accept the grace of The Word come down.
Lord, Help us to move beyond lipservice into a satiating feasting on Your word, Finding fear and refuge, Transforming heart and hands, Receiving grace and love.