John 6:63

“It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life.” (John 6:63)

The context of this verse is critical. In some sense, there is a context within a context. First, the broader context is the feeding of the 5000. The second context is that a group of folks who experienced the feeding chased Jesus to Capernaum ostensibly to find out more about Jesus. However, Jesus said, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you are seeking me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. 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.” (6‬:‭26‬-‭27‬)

It is to this group that Jesus attempted to sharpen their focus from external to internal. They had come for more “wonder bread.” But Jesus wanted them to recognize the meaning of the wonder bread.

I think he would do the same to me today. It’s not that working to put food on the table isn’t important. But in reality, I work for more than essentials. Jesus’ point is to work at least equally hard for that which matters eternally.

Father, please help me properly identify what is necessary for physical life, and give it its proper emphasis, but not more. Please help me recognize what builds into eternity and not give it less attention. Amen.