REFLECTIONS TODAY
Many people, including Jesus’ own disciples, cannot accept that Jesus is the life-giving revealer sent by God, that he is the bread of life come down from heaven. The test of faith is set before all the disciples, and “as a result of this, many of his disciples returned to their former way of life and no longer walked with him” (v 66). Even the inner core of disciples, the Twelve [apostles], are not spared from the test. One of them, Judas Iscariot, who does not overcome the power of darkness and unbelief, will betray him. On the other hand, Simon confesses his belief in Jesus in their behalf. It is the same spirit of the Father that reveals and allows him to accept and confirm that Jesus is indeed the Holy One of God. Gospel • John 6:60-69 Many of the disciples of Jesus who were listening said, “This saying is hard; who can accept it?” Since Jesus knew that his disciples were murmuring about this, he said to them, “Does this shock you? What if you were to see the Son of Man ascending to where he was before? It is the Spirit that gives life, while the flesh is of no avail. The words I have spoken to you are Spirit and life. But there are some of you who do not believe.” Jesus knew from the beginning the ones who would not believe and the one who would betray him. And he said, “For this reason I have told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted him by my Father.” As a result of this, many of his disciples returned to their former way of life and no longer walked with him. Jesus then said to the Twelve, “Do you also want to leave?” Simon Peter answered him, “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and are convinced that you are the Holy One of God.” Source: “365 Days with the Lord 2023,” St. Paul’s, 7708 St. Paul Rd., SAV, Makati City (Phils.); Tel.: 632-895-9701; Fax 632-895-7328; E-mail: [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]); Website: [http://www.stpauls.ph](http://www.stpauls.ph).