BREAD OF HEAVEN

PULPITMAN.COM "My whole intent in living here is to make God smile." (Gianna Jessen)

Bread of Heaven (John 6:35, 41-51)
Delivered August 9, 2009 at Smith Chapel UMC

What I Didn't Say

Title--I'm usually a tad more imaginative about my sermon titles. "Bread of Heaven" is a bit mundane on the surface. However, what an awesome concept! I guess I didn't come up with anything better because there isn't anything better. At least that's what I keep telling myself.

Bob--The Bob to whom I refer in this sermon is Bob Bennett (Christian recording artist). I've been listening to Bob's music for twenty-five or so years. He had performed a concert for us the evening prior to this sermon and was singing at our Communion service that day. If you don't know his music, you may want to check him out.

Since he was sitting right there in the service, I had to say nice things about him. Actually, he's a real sweetheart of a guy. Have him come to your town for a concert. You won't regret it.

Gnaw--this really blows my mind! The word in the original language is usually translated "eat." More literally, it should be translated "gnaw." In other words, digging into the Bible, understanding Jesus, and living out the Christian Life (whatever that might mean) is not easy. It's not instant. It's not even quick. It takes awhile.

I suppose that's one of the reasons why we say we're on a journey. It's not a short trek. Michael Card once wrote a song that said there is "Joy in the Journey." I would liken it to a meal we really enjoy. The more we like it, the more we eat. If we're really into it, we'll chew slowly to get the most flavor from it. We'll make it last as long as we can.

If we gnaw on the Word, it we chew on the things of Jesus, if we partake of life to the fullest, we will truly be filled...not with fluff or sweet things that will be used up quickly. We will be strengthened for the journey. He's not like drinking a Red Bull. He's more like dining on a 32 oz. steak.

C.S. Lewis--I love quoting famous people who agree with what I'm saying. it makes me feel like I know what I'm talking about.

Holy Communion--I love this sacrament! Sometimes we simply go through the motions. Sometimes we allow it to have meaning, but let it get sappy. If we start to grasp what it means, it will help to transform our lives like a good meal gives the body solid sustenance.

In my first parish, I remember calling people up by tables to partake of Holy Communion. As I stood there, I noticed a little girl coming forward with a baby doll in her hand. The doll was almost as tall as she. One of the elderly gentlemen in the congregation stood beside her.

When I passed the elements to each communicant, she realized she was going to need two hands. So she nonchalantly handed the doll to the elderly man. Without blinking an eye, he took the doll and held it as we all communed together.

I'm glad that happened early in the time I often call "my ministry." It was a stark reminder of what communion means...at least in part. We're all in this together...young and old, rich and poor, black and white...(well, you know how it goes).

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