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

I lived in a town where the train was central to life. Lots of people got up early and walked to the train to travel quite a distance into the city so they could work. The would read newspapers, do a puzzle or simply try to sleep on their commute. If you rode the train home in the evening, the signs of weariness and exhaustion were everywhere. And, day after day, they repeated the cycle, so they could feed their families and have a roof overhead. Some wondered whether it is all worth it, I am sure. All did the arduous commute for the love of their families and children. Jesus and his disciples were at a crossroads. Things were getting real and those who came along for the ride scattered like leaves in the wind. Peter and the other disciples knew where they belonged - by Jesus' side. Despite the challenges and troubles ahead, love called them and there they would stay.

Wondrous Creator, ground of all our lives

we are loved into existence despite our humanity

cared for tenderly despite our doubts and fears

and held close in our joys and our sorrows.

We often scatter and run when hard times come

thinking there is another greener valley for us

we forget the loving care we have received

and turn from the home where we have been called.

Help us Lord, to remain steady on our fears

help us to cling to your love and care alone

give us the strength to be faithful in hard times

trusting that you are truly with us through it all. Amen