Why did Jesus tell the people not to work for food? Short answer: Jesus loves us. Plus, they had just been fed by Jesus. Miraculously. Long answer: Jesus’ plea for us not to work for perishing food goes to the very reason Jesus came. To save us by grace alone. Through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, we now have a way to be reconciled with God. Jesus then clearly states that no works can save us. Jesus is the only salvation, because of grace.
Too often I forget this very fact. I pursue my perishing food like it matters and like I can control it. In that mindset, God is on the back burner, and Jesus is just the name I call during frustration.
Jesus understood the people were looking at worldly things instead of eternal things. God’s upside-down kingdom is all about fixing our eyes on the eternal, then trusting in God’s provision for the earthly. Jesus knows we need food to survive, but God wanted everyone to have true provision. Salvation. Jesus is the only way to salvation; in return God desires a relationship.
How is your relationship with Jesus? Do you make time for God every day?
God, thank you for the gift of Jesus. Help me accept the gift of life and walk with you every day. Amen. —