Today’s scripture: John 6:60-71 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Tommy Chittenden):
Every ministry faces difficult times. It’s just a given!
There will be times when things are up, and times when things are down. During all those times there are very few ministry leaders who do all they can to see that the ministry loses supporters. In fact, those who are called to leadership positions in the church and any other Christian ministry are focused on doing all they can to ensure continued success and growth.
That’s why I find it surprising that in today’s scripture, Jesus seems to be doing all he can to drive people away from his ministry. Evidently, he had not read the leadership and “success in ministry” the books I read as a youth pastor. I mean, we were always trying to find a successful “enlargement” campaign, but here, Jesus was engaged in what could be called a successful “ensmallment” campaign!
When John opens this chapter, Jesus has over 5,000 followers. When this chapter closes, he only has 12 men with him and one of them is Judas!
If Jesus is doing anything in these verses, he is issuing a call to commitment. He knows that many of these followers are merely there for what they can get for their flesh. Jesus lays down the gauntlet and calls for every one of those followers to commit to him and to him alone. His call to commitment has a two-fold outcome. First, it clarifies his call, mission, and ministry for those who would follow him. Second, it purifies the ranks of his disciples, effectively weeding out most of those who are not genuine in their faith or commitment.
Our verses for today reveal Jesus clearly stating the truth about himself and his ministry. Here, we are allowed to see thousands of people turn their backs on him and walk away. After the crowds leave, Jesus immediately turns to his 12 disciples and asks them to make a personal commitment as well. Can you almost hear his heart break as he asks them, “Will you also go away?”
One of the best definitions I have ever heard of what a Christian really is was this: “One who cannot walk away!”
Once we have felt the powerful touch of Almighty God, once we have walked in the light of God’s glory, once we have tasted of God’s goodness, we will never be satisfied with substitutes and imitations! We may wander for a time, but like the Prodigal son we will “come to ourself.” We will remember what it was like in the Father’s house and we will come home! When we do, God will receive us with open arms and perfect restoration.
Not everyone walks away.
Thought for the day: Jesus. . . to whom would we go, if not you? You have the words of life, and we are home. We are not walking away!
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.