Flesh, Blood, and Bread

In John 6, Jesus confronts our tendency to want his provision without wanting his presence. After feeding the five thousand, the crowds pursue him because they want bread, but Jesus redirects their hunger toward himself: “I am the bread of life.” His shocking language about eating his flesh and drinking his blood metaphorically points to communion, where we abide in him. Jesus knows there will be lots of tables in front of us filled with lots of things.  However, He insists that only He, Himself, provides what truly satisfies. When many disciples leave because following him is too costly, Peter stays. Why? Because he knows there is no one else to whom he can go to be truly filled.