To Whom Can We Go?

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.” Jesus answered them, “Did I not choose you, the twelve? Yet one of you is a devil.” He was speaking of Judas son of Simon Iscariot, for he, though one of the twelve, was going to betray him. John 6:60-71 

Sometimes, we all want to run away from our troubles, whatever they may be. The thought of packing a suitcase and abandoning all of the mess occurs to everyone. And sometimes, there are abusive relationships and soul crushing situations that we must walk or run away from. Yet, for most of us, we are surrounded by love and support, even on our bad days. We might not see it or feel it, but love is there even in the midst of troubles.

Jesus had some followers take off after he was really clear how hard their lives would be. They wanted life to be easy. They wanted, what we all want, an easy and safe ride. But being faithful and loving is often hard with little reward and less support. True friends and family don't abandon us in hard times, and God in right there in the middle of our mess. We are reminded today that we can be broken, yet love will mend us, we can be ignored and hurt but love will find our way home.

Today I ask God to give me the strength to lift my head up and rejoice where I have been placed. May we all see God's love today in the midst of our messes. And may we share the little rays of hope and love with others mired down and lost.