Here in Texas we love our HEB. That’s the local grocery store chain. Where there are lines every morning at 7 a.m. for the doors to open at 8 a.m.
It’s a scary thought, isn’t it, anticipating possible shutdowns of even essential services like groceries? It wouldn’t be long before our canned tuna and Ramen noodles run out. Then what?
To put it bluntly, we’d starve to death. Yes, this is what you see in people’s eyes scanning the shelves at HEB. They’re thinking, “Is this 6-pack of chicken soup enough? What if HEB closes next week? I could die. My family could die.”
I’m not trying to be funny or make fun of anyone who buys multiple packs of chicken soup or toilet paper. The threat is real. The fear is valid.
The answer, unfortunately, isn’t as real or valid. The best hope for relief from COVID-19 right now is to let it run its course, try to stay out of the way, and prepare for a deeper recession.
That answer doesn’t thrill me, and it probably doesn’t thrill you, either. Thankfully, there is a better answer. And it is very real.
Jesus, a real person who is also really God, once told us, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty” (John 6:35).
Today, you need to be nourished with hope in an exciting and secure future.
Today, you need to be nourished with friendship and an intimate relationship that fills your need for social interaction.
Today, you need to be given a report rejoicing that you are perfectly healthy—that your soul is not sick or diseased any more—because the blood of Jesus purifies sinners.
Come. Eat the bread of life. Drink in Jesus’ promises that soothe your fears and strengthen your resolve. Be hungry for him. Thirsty for his wisdom from above.
He delivers nourishment. It’s free. For anyone. And fills you up.
Be sure to check out CrossLifePf.org/easter for all the details about our CrossLife Church Easter celebration online.
PRAYER: Remind me when I’m hungry, Jesus, that the best hunger is one that hungers for you. Remind me when I’m thirsty, Jesus, that the best thirst is one that thirsts for you. Remind me that you nourish me, strengthen me, make me healthy, and satisfy me like nothing else. Remind me to share you with my friends, too. Amen.
FURTHER MEDITATION: Watch this 5-minute video called “True Food”. You’ll find references to Proverbs 8:1;9:5,6 and Romans 6:3-5 and Isaiah 55:1-8.
