Bread

John 6:51

I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.

If you read the full passage [V.22-70] which this verse comes from you will see how it caused many folk to stop following Jesus!

Jesus is talking about eating His Flesh and drinking His Blood in order to have eternal life.

Of course, we now see how we can do what Jesus asked when we take the bread and wine in Communion, but to the people of that day it seemed revolting and ridiculous.

It was a hard thing to hear and not many could stand to listen to it.

Also there was a lot of gossip about Jesus' parents - so the cynical were quick to pipe up, "We know who you're parents are. How can you say you're from heaven?"

Jesus heard all the background mumbling and grumbling. Never think that even one word you say is missed by His ever listening ear.

It hurt His heart to see the people he knew and loved fall away and reject Him.

At this point many of his disciples turned away and deserted him.

So, I ask myself: what can cause me to be offended at Jesus?

Is it when life disappoints or circumstances are overwhelming?

What would it take to make me fall away?

My hope and prayer is that I will echo Peter's words when life gets hard:

Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. 

At a time, when we may find ourselves facing death at any moment, turn towards the only One who promises eternal life!