I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever. John 6:51
Jesus said, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty” John 6:35. What a comforting picture of his sacrifice and the spiritual sustenance he offers!
At the Last Supper, Jesus distributed bread saying, “This is my body, which is given for you; do this in remembrance of me” Luke 22:19. Our daily sustenance reminds us of our physical reliance on Jesus, as well as our spiritual connection to him. God’s provision of food in the miracle of the loaves and fishes (Mark 6:30-44) reminds us to trust his ability to meet our needs.
Our meals are a daily opportunity to reflect on God’s goodness and remember his loving concern for both our physical and spiritual wholeness. Sharing your meals as Jesus did with his disciples fosters unity and a chance to openly express our gratefulness. It reminds us of our shared humanity and our faith in the One who provides.
In addition to bread representing life itself, wine mentioned in the Bible represents joy and fellowship. Scriptures featuring olive oil, fruits, vegetables, and meats point to God’s elaborate provision for our needs. Like the ancient Israelites, we can trust God to know our deepest spiritual needs too, even better than we know ourselves. “He gives food to every creature. His love endures forever” Psalm 136:25.
So…”Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart.” Ecclesiastes 9:7
PRAYER: Lord, I don’t want to take Your lavish nourishment for granted! Even the food on my table expresses the depth of Your love for my physical and spiritual well-being. With every morsel of Your daily banquet, I am grateful, and I return my thanks to You, the Giver of all good things. Amen.