John 6:66-71

John 6:66-71 
English Standard Version (ESV)

  Here's both the saddest and most wondrous stories, pressed against in each other in the same setting.  The sharp edges of Jesus' teaching that he refuses to soften have driven some of his disciples away -- the sacrifice in this world was too much, and the reward in the next was too ethereal, too distant, to give them the ability to persevere.
  The apostles, though, have seen and heard enough that they know that Christ, and Christ alone, has the words to eternal life, and that he is willing to share them with all who believe.  Their hearts have led them to a place where there is no turning back, for the way forward is too alluring.  No matter what besets them from any side, what they see before them is drawing them forward.
  The church today needs to take this message to heart.  How do we ensure that we communicate the truth and beauty of the Gospel in such language that it is so beautiful, so alluring that it's worth sacrificing everything for?  Do we talk about God and God's Kingdom and the eternal life that awaits in such a way that people are captivated by the work of the Holy Spirit?  And do we also recognize the challenges people face in this world, the difficultly of following the Gospel in our current context, and recognize how easy it is to walk away?  May we ensure that we issue words of grace to invite those who have slipped out the back door to reconsider, for what they might sacrifice is something beautiful, something eternal that will outlast whatever seems to offer more appeal in the current day and age.
  Christ alone has the words to eternal life.  May our words and lives proclaim that this is worth giving up everything to follow.