Jesus often spoke in ways that startled His listeners—cutting through shallow religion to reveal deeper spiritual realities. In John 6, He speaks of eating His flesh and drinking His blood—not as mere symbolism, but as a profound picture of intimate union with Him. These verses remind us that true life isn’t found in mere belief about Jesus, but in being vitally connected to Him.

Scripture:
“Anyone who eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in him. I live because of the living Father who sent me; in the same way, anyone who feeds on me will live because of me.” — John 6:56–57, NLT

Reflection:
Jesus’ words here shocked many of His followers. They weren’t expecting such a bold declaration—that real life, eternal life, comes only through such a deep and personal connection to Him. “Eat my flesh…drink my blood.” These are not commands to be taken physically, but spiritually. Jesus was pointing to His upcoming sacrifice, His body broken and His blood poured out on the cross.

To “feed on” Christ means to receive Him fully—not just intellectually or emotionally, but with our entire being. It is an ongoing, dependent relationship. Just as our physical bodies need daily nourishment, our souls need the sustaining life of Christ. He becomes our source of strength, hope, and identity.

Jesus connects this relationship to His own dependence on the Father. Just as He lives because of the Father, we live because of Him. This is more than imitation—it’s participation. As 1 John 4:13 says, “God has given us his Spirit as proof that we live in him and he in us.” This is the mystery of abiding: Christ in us, and we in Him.

Application:
Ask yourself—are you feeding daily on the life of Christ? Are you drawing strength from Him, or from lesser things? Let your time in prayer and the Word be more than routine—let it be communion. When you feel spiritually dry, return to the cross and remember the cost of this union. Let every day be shaped by the awareness that His life flows into yours.

References:
“Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit.” — John 15:5, NLT
“My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.” — Galatians 2:20, NLT

Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for offering Yourself so completely. I want to remain in You—to draw life from You alone. Forgive me for the times I’ve sought strength in things that cannot satisfy. Teach me to feed daily on Your truth, to abide in Your love, and to walk in the life You give. Fill me again with Your presence. Amen.e of Your presence both now and in eternity. Teach me to live with a heart anchored in heaven, unafraid of what lies ahead. When fear creeps in, remind me that You are near—that to leave this world is to fall into Your arms. Give me courage to live faithfully and peace to trust You with my days. Amen.