Do Not Work for Food that Spoils
This verse is in the context of Jesus feeding the five thousand. This verse takes some real reflection to understand. Most of us have spent many years “working” for the physical needs for ourselves and our families.
According to the Social Security Administration, I have been “working” since 1969! Fifty five years is a long time “working”. As a follower of Jesus, I have been called to work for the food that endures to eternal life for fifty three years.
What is the work that endures to eternal life? The best answer I can give is the internal work of my spiritual self and the work of investing myself in others growth.
In the final analysis, it is only our renewed selves that will endure into the age to come. This is what the Apostle Paul and other co-workers gave their lives to for the kingdom of God.
They also ‘worked” hard to meet their material needs. The point is that their physical work was not their fundamental purpose and focus. I am sure they worked their trades and did them very well.
They were living their lives as if Jesus was living in them. (Which he was!). What they focused on was investing their energies on growing up in Christ and helping others do the same.
They relied on the gifts and power of the Holy Spirit to use them as they were led. We all have people in our lives that we need to invest in. Whether it is our time, energy or resources.
We do this work in community. The body of Christ grows as we work together to invest in the hearts and lives of people. Where is your focus? Is your focus on “the food that perishes” or
is it on your spiritual growth and the growth of others? We can all learn to do what Jesus is calling us to do in this verse. Will it take practice? Yes. Will it take effort? Yes.
It begins with being with Jesus. Listening to his instructions. It will take our willingness to practice and learn through trial and error. We can redirect our focus and energies.
May the Lord teach you to apply this verse in your day to day walk of faith!
Pastor Fred