Posted by The WORD in other words (2010) by Father Samuel Clarin SVD – Davao City
Monday 3rd Week of Easter
Introduction
Have you ever experienced being flattered? When people praise you excessively with a hidden agenda? When compliments are given insincerely, often to win favor? Someone might say: “You look so slim!” even if your waistline is 40, or “You are a good singer!” even if you are out of tune.
In today’s Gospel (John 6:26–27), Jesus experienced something similar. People were looking for Him not because they believed in Him or loved Him, but because they wanted to use Him. They had eaten the bread He multiplied and wanted Him to continue providing for their material needs. Jesus gave them a stern warning: “You are looking for me not because you saw signs but because you ate the loaves and had your fill. Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life.”
Human Tendency
It is human tendency that when one gives something to satisfy another’s wants, the latter will continually return to ask again. But Jesus challenges us to go deeper. It has been said: “Teach people not only to eat fish but to catch fish.” This is the beginning of true friendship — not ignoring those who beg, but allowing God’s grace to work in both giver and receiver. The generous giver becomes a witness of God’s love, while the one who receives may realize his short-sightedness and be transformed.
Spiritual Application
In our spiritual life, it is easy to look for Jesus when He grants our requests. We cling to Him in times of dire need. Yet maturity in faith means not being indifferent to Him when difficulties arise. It means learning to carry our own crosses with eternity in view. As St. Paul reminds us: “We rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope” (Romans 5:3–4).
All blessings come from the cross. We need not flatter Jesus, for He knows what is best for each of us. What He desires is our trust, our faith, and our willingness to follow Him even when the path is hard.
Conclusion
Let us not seek Jesus only for material bread, nor flatter Him with insincere devotion. Instead, let us work for the food that endures to eternal life, trusting that He is the Bread of Life who satisfies our deepest hunger.
“Lord Jesus, help me to seek You not for what You give, but for who You are.”
