Living Bread

Then the Jews began to complain about Jesus because he said, “I am the bread that came down from heaven.” They were saying, “Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How can he now say, ‘I have come down from heaven’?” Jesus answered them, “Do not complain among yourselves. No one can come to me unless drawn by the Father who sent me; and I will raise that person up on the last day. It is written in the prophets, ‘And they shall all be taught by God.’ Everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to me. Not that anyone has seen the Father except the one who is from God; he has seen the Father. Very truly, I tell you, whoever believes has eternal life. I am the bread of life. Your ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness, and they died. This is the bread that comes down from heaven, so that one may eat of it and not die. I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats of this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh.” John 6:41-51 

O wondrous Creator of earthly delights

who provide us all with taste treats

at every culture, clan and home table

with give you thanks for your blessings.

In these times when food is scarce for many

when basic shelter and community are gone

when we are isolated and feeling alone

still, you bless and feed us with living bread.

When the religious leaders tested you

still you blessed the people in your care

when you were rejected and dismissed

still you healed and fed those who came.

Let us follow in your way of blessing

make us your hands and heart this day

give us the courage to step out in love

knowing you will be living bread for all. Amen.