John 6:25-35

“Jesus said to them, ‘I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.’” vs. 35

If you have had occasion to go grocery shopping in the last few days, you’ve likely encountered massive crowds, and occasionally, empty shelves. This is the holiday that is focused on consumption, and in homes all across the land people are sitting down to meals featuring all the traditional favorites: turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, dressing, cranberries, and some variety of green beans. And that’s followed up by large pieces of pecan or pumpkin pie. Of course each family will have variations, some special recipe handed down through the generations that provides a taste of nostalgia, even if it isn’t very good! For many reasons eating has become our ritual of thanksgiving–even Jesus was aware of the powerful significance of food and intentionally instituted a meal of eating and drinking for his followers. But he also reminded us that there is more to our lives than filling our bellies, no matter how good the food might be. John reports that when crowds came searching for him, looking for more loaves, he told them that they could satisfy their spiritual hunger by learning to trust in him. And he was right! As good as today’s calorie rich meal might be, it can’t compare to the satisfaction that comes with the feasts we regularly reconsume at his Eucharistic Table. 

Thought for the Day: What foods do I associate with Thanksgiving?