“Whoever eats of this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh.” -John 6:51
Jesus’ audience asks a reasonable question: “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” (John 6:52). Jesus’ answer doesn’t really address the question; instead, he reiterates that he is the true bread from heaven, the true source of eternal life.
This must have been off-putting to his listeners. Eat flesh? Drink blood?
And yet, here we find a profoundly grace-filled invitation—abide in me—and a promise: through this meal I abide in you. We are invited to not only join Jesus at the table, but to be at home in the love of God, knowing that Christ makes his home in our hearts and lives too.
So come: eat, and get to know God!
Preaching Theme:
How’s Your Memory?
Sunday’s Worship Music
The Hymn of the Day in our Traditional services is Come Let Us Eat. Jesus reminds us that his presence abides with those who eat and drink of his body and blood. Today’s hymn of the day has us sing, “In Jesus’ presence now we meet and rest. In the presence of our Lord we gather.”
The Worship Song in our New Day Praise Service is Remind Me Who I Am. In our worship we hear the Words of Institution, “Do this in remembrance of me.” By remembering who Jesus is, we are also reminded of who we are—beloved children of God.
For Further Reflection
When thinking of the phrase “flesh and blood” what comes to mind?
How may “flesh and blood” describe the relationships you share: with kin, with your family of faith, with your Lord?
“This cup is the new covenant in my blood, shed for you and for all people for the forgiveness of sin.”
When we share communion we hear Jesus’ words. Covenant means promise. God promises to forgive us of our sins. God promises to keep us in a holy relationship. But covenant is a two-way promise.
What promises do you share with God and with the people in your life?
