Put First Things First

(John 6:24-35)

In this week's gospel lesson, found in John 6:24-35, we start examining a lengthy discussion about the Bread from Heaven that will continue for the next few weeks. In this part of the discussion, Jesus addresses the crowd that followed Him after the miraculous feeding of the 5,000. He points out that they seek Him for physical sustenance, but He urges them to seek something more important - spiritual nourishment. Jesus emphasizes that while physical needs are always present, our main focus should be on the spiritual food that leads to eternal life.

Another example that supports this idea is when Jesus spoke to a Samaritan woman (John 4:14-15) about "living water," which symbolizes the eternal life He offers. This interaction emphasizes how Jesus often used people's physical needs to illustrate deeper spiritual truths.

A third example is when Jesus heals a paralytic (Matthew 9). He first forgives the man's sins, addressing his spiritual need before his physical one. This story illustrates that our greatest need is to be restored to God, which can only happen through faith in Jesus.

Jesus teaches us to seek God's kingdom and His righteousness first (Matthew 6:25-33), promising that all other needs will be met. This principle is echoed in the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus advises us not to worry about our physical needs but to trust God's provision.

This week, challenge yourself to prioritize your spiritual needs. Spend time in ways that will help you grow in grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:18). Trust that as you focus on your spiritual growth, God will care for your physical needs.

Jesus' teaching about the bread of life calls us to order our lives rightly by placing our spiritual needs above our physical ones. By seeking God's kingdom first, we open ourselves to His abundant provision and eternal life. May this gospel lesson deepen your love for God and teach you how to love others better.

Peace be with you!

- Pastor Bruce