Living Scripture

 

   Imagine yourself with your parents on a hillside near the sea of Galilee.  At 12 years of age you really aren’t sure why you are there.  There’s a man called Jesus talking, and everyone seems to be very interested in what he has to say.  He’s talking about a faith that is different from anything you've ever heard.  A faith based on love, forgiveness, and caring for one another.

   It’s been a long day and you’re tired and hungry.  You have your family’s meal with you; not much, just some fish and two loaves of bread.  Suddenly one of the men who have been with this Jesus comes up and ask if you would give it to Jesus to help feed the crowd.  You look at him as if he is possessed; how in the world can a couple of fish and loaves feed the thousands who are on that hillside.  Still, your parents approve so you agree.  The man asks that you bring it and give it to Jesus.

   This man Jesus has the kindest eyes you’ve ever seen.  When you offer him the food he smiles, takes it, and asks you to sit with him.  Then he takes the two loaves and the fishes, blesses God for them and hands them to his friends to give out.  He takes some of the fish and bread for himself and for you and sits down to eat.

   As his friends begin to pass out the food something amazing happens.  The more they give out the more there is; how can that possibly happen?  With just two fish and some loaves all the people have eaten their fill.

   You look questioning at Jesus, he smiles and says, “I am the bread of life.  Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” (John 6: 35).  Even at 12 years old you recognize that this is the Son of God, the Messiah and you must follow Him.

 

   Based on John 6: 1 – 14.  When we place ourselves in the scripture, the scripture speaks to us. 

Lord let me live in the scripture.

Let it speak to my heart.

Open my mind and soul.

Let me hear Your word. 

Amen