WEDNESDAY, MARCH 17
Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you. For on Him God the Father has set His seal.
John 6:27 (ESV)
JESUS MAY NOT BE SATISFYING IF I AM RELYING ON SOMETHING BESIDES JESUS FOR MY HAPPINESS
Once Napoleon and an acquaintance were talking of life. It was dark; they walked to the window and looked out. There in the sky were distant stars, little more than pinpoints of light. Napoleon, who had sharp eyes while his friend was dim-sighted, pointed to the sky: “Do you see these stars?” he asked. “No,” his friend answered. “I can’t see them.” “That,” said Napoleon, “is the difference between you and me.” The man who is earthbound is living half a life. It is the man with vision, who looks at the horizon and sees the stars, who is truly alive.
Jesus taught in John 6:27, if we only work for earthly fulfillment, we are being short sighted. This life is temporary, but Jesus wants to give us eternal life and eternal joy. The prophet Isaiah asked: “Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread? and your labor for that which does not satisfy?” (Isaiah 55:2). Only Jesus can satisfy our deepest need for peace, love, and joy.
Reflection
It’s not wrong to work hard and put food on your table. However, there are times when we say we have put our trust in Jesus for eternal life but still look to earthly things as a source of happiness. What are some of the earthly things you put too much hope in for your joy?
Praise
Thank God that His gift of eternal life is forever. Thank God for His offer of unconditional joy even in the tough times.
