Former Blackout Artist

Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you are seeking me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves.” – John 6:26

Picture this: you’re trapped in a dull, generic office. Across from you, a salesman is talking a mile a minute, pitching the idea that you absolutely need a cozy vacation spot for that one precious week your boss allows you to escape with your family each year.

You glance at your watch – time seems broken. Ten minutes have felt like an eternity. Why are you enduring this? Two free rounds of golf and a fancy dinner for four at a 5-star steakhouse. That’s it. You’re not interested in the timeshare; you’re not even pretending to be. The reality? You don’t want a timeshare. You don’t need a timeshare. Honestly, if you could afford one, you wouldn’t be sitting here, trading your precious vacation time for a few freebies. You just want the perks without the commitment.

In John 6, we see something similar happening with some of Jesus’ followers. After He miraculously fed over 5000 people with a few loaves and a couple of fish, crowds flocked to Him. But Jesus knew their motives. They weren’t drawn to Him because they truly believed He was the Son of God. They were there because He filled their stomachs. He met a physical need, and they wanted more of the same.

Throughout His ministry, people were drawn to Jesus for different reasons. Some came to be healed of diseases. Others liked the revolutionary tone of His teachings and wanted to be part of His movement. But Jesus never sugarcoated the truth. Following Him required more than just showing up for free food and healthcare. When He began teaching hard truths about sacrifice, surrender, and eternal life through Him alone, many walked away. They weren’t attracted to Jesus Himself; they were attracted to what He could do for them.

How often do we approach Jesus with the same mindset? Do we seek Him only when the chips are down? When we need something – a healing, a provision, an escape from trouble? Do we treat Him like a spiritual vending machine, coming to Him only for what we can get?

Jesus offers so much more than temporary fixes for earthly problems! He offers eternal life, a transformed heart, and a relationship with the God of the universe!

But truly following Him comes at a cost. It requires us to surrender our desires, our plans, and our need to be in control. He wants us to seek Him for who He is, not just what He can give.

So, what’s your attraction to Jesus? Are you drawn to the Bread of Life or just the bread He provides? Take a moment today to reflect on your relationship with Him. Seek Him not just for what He can do, but for who He is – the Savior who loves you, redeems you, and offers you a life that far surpasses anything this world could offer.

Today’s Prayer: Lord, forgive me for the times I come to You only when I want something. Help me to seek You for who You are, not just what You can do for me. Teach me to trust and follow You, even when it costs me something. You are enough for me. Amen.