2/27/11- John 6:30-35 Spiritual Enrichment

30 So they asked him, “What sign then will you give that we may see it and believe you? What will you do? 31 Our ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written: ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’” 32 Jesus said to them, “Very truly I tell you, it is not Moses who has given you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. 33 For the bread of God is the bread that comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.”
34 “Sir,” they said, “always give us this bread.” 35 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.

Thoughts: Today we begin our Spiritual Enrichment services. It is a time to get a spiritual boost, stretch ourselves a bit, and to grow.  Here Jesus tells us He is the One who really enriches our lives- nourishes us, strengthens us, gives light to our tired eyes.  The other day I watched a video of a starving child in Uganda (thanks Becca Hancock).  The child was totally lethargic- unable to even sit up, until it ate some food.  Within minutes of eating the boy sat up on his own.  So Jesus energizes and satisfies us- giving us the abundant life.

Prayer: Lord, by your grace, give me a steady diet of your presence, your love, your hope.

John Calvin Abridged: The Manna Moses brought did not give them life- but now heavenly life is displayed before them.  The whole world is dead to God- except when Christ quickens it.  When we receive Christ by faith we take the food of eternal life.  To come to Christ and believe mean the same thing.  The eating is the effect of faith, rather than the faith itself (to eat Christ is not the same as having faith).