Offensive Love (MTKA)

John 6:56–69

Jesus said: “Those who eat my flesh and drink my blood abide in me, and I in them. Just as the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father, so whoever eats me will live because of me. This is the bread that came down from heaven, not like that which your ancestors ate, and they died. But the one who eats this bread will live forever.” He said these things while he was teaching in the synagogue at Capernaum.

When many of his disciples heard it, they said, “This teaching is difficult; who can accept it?” But Jesus, being aware that his disciples were complaining about it, said to them, “Does this offend you? Then what if you were to see the Son of Man ascending to where he was before? It is the spirit that gives life; the flesh is useless. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life. But among you there are some who do not believe.” For Jesus knew from the first who were the ones that did not believe, and who was the one that would betray him. And he said, “For this reason I have told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted by the Father.” Because of this many of his disciples turned back and no longer went about with him. So Jesus asked the twelve, “Do you also wish to go away?” Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom can we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and know that you are the Holy One of God.”

‘Text Message’ Reflection:
From Pastor Chris Enstad

Imagine sitting down to a feast, expecting the usual spread. But instead of roast chicken and mashed potatoes, you get something a bit more unusual. That’s sort of the situation we experience in this Sunday’s Gospel text: Jesus talking about eating his flesh and drinking his blood. 🤯 Let’s just say this was not exactly your typical Sunday brunch conversation!

Some who heard this talk were offended, but others were like, “Wait, what?” 🤔 Jesus wasn’t talking about a literal feast of his flesh and blood; He was inviting us into a deeper, more intimate relationship with Him. The Good News of Jesus’ death and resurrection means that Jesus’ words and deeds have now become part of us, shaping who we are and how we live.

‘Text Message’ Reflection Questions:

• When have you experienced a deep connection with someone or something that nourished your soul? Maybe it was a powerful conversation, a moving piece of art, or a moment of quiet reflection in nature.
• How did that experience change you?

Prayer:

Jesus, thank you for inviting us into this deep relationship with you. Help us to open our hearts and minds to your words so that we may be truly nourished and transformed.