Flesh and Blood

I am probably in the minority in my enjoyment of the “bread of life” cycle in John. It seems like the same themes are repeated, but I have found them to be quite distinct. It just takes a little digging to discover the nuances of each pericope.

Two weeks ago, in John 6: 35, 41-51, I was very struck by the “I am” language related to the “bread of life.” In the Hebrew Bible, Exodus 3:14, God is named as “I am who I am.” The use of “I am” reverberates through the Hebrew Bible is various forms. When Jesus uses the “I am” form, he is invoking a significant name that carries freight. It is about identity and it is the key to understanding Jesus.

This past week, in John 6:51-58, Jesus shifts into sacramental terms. He speaks in terms of the separation of his flesh and blood. He speaks in terms of sacrifice. The separation of flesh and blood brings to mind the religious praxis of Israel.

The meat of an animal was offered in sacrifice. The blood, which was understood to contain the life/soul of the animal, was returned to the earth and covered with earth. There was a reverence for the life, contained in the blood, and that was the preserve of God. LIfe goes back to God.

Jesus speaks, however, of his blood being offered in a different way. Jesus speaks of his blood/life being offered and consumed by his followers. He is obviously speaking in sacramental language. His blood/life are not placed in the earth and hidden. His blood/life becomes the life sustaining fuel of presence for his followers. It is not simply the life of one man, remember the “I am.” Jesus is sharing the life of God. In that sharing, our lives are forever redirected and meshed in the purpose of God.

I almost wish I were preaching this week...but it is time for a vacation. Stay tuned. See you in a couple of weeks!