John 6 is one of the sections of scripture which lead many early critics of Jesus’ followers to question what went on as the community gathered. Jesus says, “The bread which I shall give for the life of the world is my flesh.” The early Church was questioned as to what was in the cup and what was on the plate, passed around at worship services.
The image of “eating Christ’s body and drinking Christ’s blood” is both terrifying and insightful.
Terrifying, in that nothing could be further from the intentions of our Lord than to cannibalize another. Ours is a belief system rooted in caring for others and sacrificing ourselves for their well-being.
The image is insightful, in that it makes us aware of our dependence upon the one whom we call Lord. We do not merely worship this one; we depend upon this one for our very lives. We cannot live unless we eat; we cannot live unless we receive the bread which has come down from heaven.
Following Jesus is not a decision we make in our heads. Being a child of God means living with the awareness that life itself is impossible unless we receive the bread which comes down from heaven. Having eaten some will give thanks and acknowledge the source of the meal. Others will get up from the table, rub their stomachs, and go on with their lives.
The bread which fills us and sustains us and strengthens us is the body of our Lord and savior.
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