My wife and I took on a low-carb diet several weeks ago, which means we cut out many delights, including bread of any sort. The diet’s actually not too bad, and I certainly feel healthier, but I look forward to warm bread with melted butter in the future.

Jesus spoke of food that endures to eternal life, then clarified, I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never go thirsty.

Immediately I think of a French bakery. Perhaps a more modern rendering would have Jesus saying I am the croissant of life, because Jesus ain’t just any old bread.

No more hunger, no more thirst—souls at rest.

After hearing this teaching from Jesus, how he’s the only way to God and following him requires resolute commitment, many of those hanging around decided to leave. Jesus asked his disciples if they wanted to leave as well.

Peter answered: Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and know that you are the Holy One of God.

Peter understood. Only Jesus, the Holy One of God, opens the door to heaven, an exclusive loaf bearing eternal life.

Other breads may pacify our hunger, but only one satisfies our soul.

John 6 in reading the Bible cover to cover in 2022

Photo by jonathan ocampo