John 6:22-71.    Even non-believers in this generation do not seem to have any problem with Jesus calling himself the bread of life.  It was not so in first century Galilee.  The Jews were insulted that a mere man would dare to equate himself with the miracle of Manna in the wilderness.  They grumbled and left.  A few loaves and fish were not worth putting up with such heresy.

That hard saying (60) was even problematic to many of the disciples – that is – followers of Jesus.  Because of this, many of them “turned back and no longer walked with him” (66).

Jesus asked the Twelve if they, too, wanted to go away.  Peter replied that they did not intend to leave him.  He is the Holy One of God who has the words of eternal life (68-69).  That is what Jesus meant by calling himself the Bread of Life.  God sent him like Manna in the wilderness. Those who believe in him are sustained now and will be resurrected on the last day (40,44,54). 

LORD, we choose to feast upon your Manna from heaven.  Give us more of Jesus.