To Whom Can We Go?

Because of Jesus’ hard sayings, many of his disciples turned back and no longer went about with him. In the gospel reading for this Sunday, we hear: So Jesus asked the twelve, “Do you also wish to go away?” Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom can we go? You have the words of eternal life.” (John 6)

I love how this gospel passage shows the humble character of good news. Jesus has just fed 5000 people, walked on water, and taught about bread and life! But what Jesus talks about with God’s presence in their hard, daily life is so difficult for the people to hear that they leave, wandering away bit by bit so the 5000 dwindle to become just a small group of twelve. When Jesus asks if they want to leave, too, all Peter can muster is “Where would we go? We’re connected now to you and your kind of life.” It’s anything but triumphal in tone if you read the whole chapter.

Which is why I love this passage. It is very rare that my faith feels like a triumph. There are so many questions, concerns, and struggles rumbling around in me — and yet, something inside me continues to find nourishment and fortitude in Jesus’ presence and promises. What about you? Does this passage help you to know that the strength of your faith is NOT what matters most? We are a community to help and hold, challenge and comfort one another as we keep listening for words of eternal life.

Beloved of St. Tim’s and beyond, you bring nourishment and words of life to others each week through your daily lives and through your links in your community. God is definitely not done speaking through you!