Question of the Week
Gospel Reading: John 6:41—51
When people hear Jesus’ strange words, some of them are repelled. How can this man say these things about himself—that he himself is the bread from heaven? Jesus’ response to them is also mystifying; he does not seem to be answering them at all. But what he says may in fact be the key to understanding the mystery of receiving his gift to us.
He says, “No one can come to me unless that Father who sent me draw him….” Jesus does not mean that the Father singles out some people to draw to him and others he ignores. In Jeremiah 31:3 God the Father explains, “I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have drawn you with lovingkindness.” It is the unimaginable depth and intensity, the infinite size and yet intimacy—it’s just for me-ness—of the Father’s love that draws us toward him. When we yearn for his love—whether we understand it or not—then we are drawn toward him and seek to receive it in all the ways he gives it. When we catch a glimpse of it we will want nothing else, ever. Jesus is telling his listeners to seek the Father first, that seeking his love is worth all our time and effort. Then we will be drawn to receive in Jesus’ flesh food for everlasting life.
Question: Thus far what do I long for most in this life? How do I go about seeking the magnificent abundance of the Father’s love?