Fields United Methodist Church

Day 45.  Take Time to Be Holy

June 2, 2020

“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

Read: John 6

Uncle Clint’s farm was the only farm in our family; it was small in comparison to the large corporate farms of today. I was intrigued by the seven cows my uncle milked on a daily basis and riding in a wagon behind his big orange tractor through the woods of his property. But what was most amazing to me was the food on the table served by Aunt Hazel; 2 or 3 different types of meat, vegetables, bread. There was enough to feed an army. I later learned that when the farm was active as were other farms around it, the meal was intended to feed those who worked hard mending fences, caring for animals, and everything else that went on in neighboring farms as well as their own. People needed to be fed to keep their strength and to stay healthy and alive. The “food” that Jesus offers nourishes the soul, which then calls and equips to then feed the hungry, care for those in need, and celebrate all people as beloved children of God without qualification or condition. When we turn back to Jesus and “come to him” there is a transformation of the soul that understands the hunger for righteousness and peace is fulfilled with the grace, peace, hope, and joy that can only come with being nourished with the call to “love your neighbor as yourself and love the Lord your God with all your heart soul, mind and strength.” The resultant witness of this Spiritual nourishment is to see all people as God sees them; beloved and cherished. Hatred and violence only leaves a hole not only in those who are the targets but also in those who feel living contrary to God’s purpose is any way to live and love. Jesus said, “come to me, those who are weary and carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Accept Jesus’ invitation; be filled with the love of God and witness the love that has been offered to you and to all creation. Turn back to God and be nourished by the food of grace and the water that quenches the thirst for righteousness.

How have you been “fed” by God today and how are you responding?

List 3 ways you can witness the love of God to someone today?

How are you taking time to be holy today?

Prayer:  Jesus, nourish me by the love you have shared with me so I can feed others

In body and in soul. May I be the witness of your never-failing love to the world. Amen.