Difficult Words of Jesus Reflection

Difficult Words of Jesus Reflection From that time many of His disciples went back and walked with Him no more. John 6:66.

A company advertised a “huggable, washable, and talking” Jesus doll that recites “actual Scripture verses to introduce children of all ages to the wisdom of the Bible.” Its sayings include, “I have an exciting plan for your life,” and “Your life matters so much to Me.” Who wouldn’t want to follow a Jesus like this?

Jesus does offer a wonderful plan for our lives. But He does not serve us as a cosmic genie or cuddly doll to meet our every whim. John 6 gives us a picture of a Jesus who is not so cuddly, in fact, we may sometimes find His words offensive. This may be so because we do not understand His words. Instead of fulfilling the selfish desires of His followers, Jesus disturbed their expectations. He offered Himself as spiritual bread from heaven and said, “Whoever eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life.” John 54.

Jesus' Difficult Words.
Jesus’ Difficult Words.

This message can be felt as offensive and difficult. The image of eating flesh and drinking blood did not give His hearers “warm fuzzies.” Many stopped following Him. John 66. Jesus did not fulfill their wishes as the conquering Messiah – King they expected. Marvin Williams – Daily Bread.

The Last Song. Elton John.

Things we never said come together; The hidden truth no longer haunting me. Tonight we touched on the things that were never spoken; That kind of understanding sets me free.

Sometimes we want a Jesus who meets our selfish needs. Yet the wonderful life He offers is found only in strict obedience to His commands. Let us ask Jesus to show us what His words mean, and for the courage to act on His truth. Amen.

“We love You, Lord Jesus,” we often may say, But are we as ready His will to obey? Let us heed what God’s Spirit would have us to do, For that is how we show Him a love that is true. DJD.

Following the way of Jesus is not always easy.