Scripture reading
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.
–Matthew 5:6
Thought of the Day
Last weekend I had the privilege of hanging out with three hundred and fifty sixth graders and adults at a retreat. It was pretty cool. The theme was CAUGHT BY CHRIST. We spent the weekend in worship and in play with singing and small groups and a lot more. Saturday night we gathered together for a service of Holy Communion. After we gave the invitation to come to the table, and it was time to come forward, it was as if there was a race to get to the front. As Jessica and I stood there with the bread and the juice, sixth graders surrounded us. Their hands were outstretched and reaching for the bread. It was as if they were starving for nourishment. I think that they got caught up in the moment and wanted to make the experience happen as soon as they could.
As I read the Gospels, I try to imagine what it must have been like to hang with Jesus. I try to put myself in the stories to feel His presence. You know, what if we hungered for Christ like those so long ago? When the people came to where Jesus was and when He began to speak; can’t you see them crowding to the front to be close to Him? They hungered for His teaching, for His healing, for His love, just like those sixth graders were hungering for Communion on Saturday night.
I will never forget that moment of serving the bread that night. I hope that I can hunger for Christ Jesus with that same energy and focus. I hope you can do the same.
Prayer
Lord, You satisfy any hunger that I have. Amen.