Food for Thought (June 7, 2023)

Jesus said to them, “Come and eat breakfast.” (John 21:12)

As uniquely created and diverse as we are, the love of good food is one commonality that we share as human beings who hunger and thirst for bodily nourishment. In an increasingly busy world that often leads us in different directions, food is a necessity of life that can bring people together and, if only briefly, promote unity among us. Couples pursuing romantic relationships, for example, frequently seek to get off to a good start by going out to dinner at a popular restaurant. Business is often conducted and potential clients are entertained over a tasty meal. Dining together can also enhance family relations. As a child, I fondly remember gathering as a family around the kitchen table after church for a Sunday dinner of my mom’s savory fried chicken, homemade biscuits and gravy, and freshly-baked apple pie for dessert. Partaking in a meal together connects us and promotes healthy communication, cooperation, and communion.

And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said, "Take, eat; this is My body." Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you. For this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. (Matthew 26:26-28)

Throughout the Bible, we see the enjoyment of a meal as a unifying endeavor that helps to build and bond interpersonal relationships. The Last Supper at which Jesus dined with His apostles for the last time in the Upper Room and instituted the Eucharist (Holy Communion) immediately comes to mind. Another biblical scene that touches my heart was the seaside breakfast of fish and bread that our risen LORD prepared over a fire of coals and served the disciples after He had turned their unsuccessful night of fishing into a massive catch. Jesus used the imagery of fellowship over a hearty meal in His call to all humanity to repentance and salvation. “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.” (Revelation 3:20) Those who choose by faith to open their heart’s door to Christ will live, dine, and fellowship with our LORD eternally!

 ^“And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.” (John 6:35)