Jn 6:60-69
Do you also want to leave: Many disciples of Jesus return to their former way of life because they find his teaching difficult to accept. He talks about giving his flesh and blood as food and drink for those who want to have eternal life (v 54). Even more confusing are his statements about ascending to where he was before (v 62) and his relationship with the Father (vv 57, 65). They do not understand any of these.
Jesus’ word is very dear to us. We know that it is the way to our salvation. This is not to say, however, that we do not have difficulty living his teaching. Many have turned away from Christ to embrace what the world offers. They enjoy a life in which human passions and desires are given free rein.
The Lord knows that his teaching runs counter to what the world practices. He knows that his followers will suffer persecution simply for proclaiming the good news of salvation. He does not hide this from us. He does not water down his message. He tells his disciples frankly, “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me” (Mt 16:24). Now his words echo in our ears, “Do you also want to leave?” (v 67).
The Lord knows that his teaching runs counter to what the world practices. He knows that his followers will suffer persecution simply for proclaiming the good news of salvation. He does not hide this from us. He does not water down his message. He tells his disciples frankly, “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me” (Mt 16:24). Now his words echo in our ears, “Do you also want to leave?” (v 67).