Jesus watched the crowd arrive. He knew why they had come and wasted no time getting to the heart of their needs. Jesus did not want to show them how silly their perceived needs were. Instead, they were being taught to recognise the greatest need of all, the need that would, once met, fill them with joy and peace forever.
We often
focus on what is right in front of us. Jesus had filled the people’s stomachs with good, nutritious food, which enabled them to go home feeling content. The added reward was that it had cost them nothing. What a gift! Now, they wanted more.
We see a small percentage of the whole picture when we focus only on what is right in front of us rather than looking further. Jesus wants us to broaden the focus of our hearts, minds, and
spirits to receive that which is invisible. He invites us to interact with the one who loves us most, find our true worth, and understand our life's purpose. The needs of our bodies are just a part of our greater needs. The needs of our souls can only be satisfied through a meaningful relationship with Jesus.
The clue Jesus gives them is that it is not only about what filled them and left them
satisfied at the end of that day; it is about who can truly fill and satisfy them forever.
Undoubtedly, a good helping of food can leave one feeling very happy for a day. The question is, what about tomorrow and the day after? What about hope for the future? What about your sense of being valued and loved, of the purpose of your being?
Jesus invites us all
to come and receive what endures forever.
Is there a deep longing in your heart for something you can not fully explain?
Are you trying to live an honest and truthful life but unsure if this is enough?
What is the hunger you cannot name that is nagging deep within?
In your prayer today, ask Jesus to focus your heart, mind, and spirit on what strengthens your relationship with him so that you and God may be one.
Reflections by Cherie-Lynn van
der Merwe
