John 6:60-71

I have an idealized vision of what it would be like to follow Jesus. I imagine throngs of people hanging on His every word, and living newly passionate lives. I imagine a faithful crowd that grows bigger every day.

But today, we find out that not every one wanted to stick around. After hearing about "the bread of life", people in the crowd complained that the teaching was too difficult, so "...many of Jesus's followers turned back, and would not go with Him any more." (6:66)

As we read the Bible, it becomes very apparent that human nature really hasn't changed in 2000 years. Today, many people get all fired up when first introduced to Christianity. They are inspired by the music and the teaching. They love the social community and the programs of their local church.

But soon, they are asked to apply these teachings to their lives. Perhaps they are asked to stop lying, or to give up a destructive habit. Perhaps a crisis comes into their lives, and they are asked to lean on God and not blame Him.

I'm reminded of the parable of the sower and the seed. These are the people of the rocky soil, who, "...hear the word and at once receive it with joy. But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away." (Mark 4:16-17)

For many people, change is difficult. They are perfectly willing to join in the joyful worship, but they are not willing to commit fully to the message of Christ. For some, even a small change is too much. They just give up.

But God, also, has not changed. 2000 years later, Jesus still loves us. God still wants to draw us to Him. The words of Simon Peter are still true today: "...You have the words that give eternal life. ...you are the Holy One who has come from God." (6:68-69)