LABOURING FOR THE FOOD THAT ENDURES

Meditation for Monday of the 3^rd Week of Easter
(Acts 6:8-15; Jn 6:22-29)

It is not always easy to focus on the things that really matter. Sometimes the things we presume to be urgent and important end up not having lasting value. Momentary and exuberant pleasures and entertainment have certain compelling force that tends to bend us to their side. It takes grace and a resolute mind to train oneself to learn discipline and patiently pursue true and lasting values. Think about the Jews looking for Jesus from Tiberias to the other side of the sea at Capernaum, only to be told by Jesus that their intention was misplaced. “Truly, truly, I say to you, you seek me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. Do not labour for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to eternal life, which the Son of man will give to you; for on Him has God the Father set His seal.”

We see then that if we often follow the lead of immediate satisfactions, we may end up misguided. We must have a far-reaching sight by placing eternal life ahead of all. If we order our affairs in such a way that our salvation in Christ Jesus is our number one target, then it becomes easier for us to place other enduring values, such as love, peace, unity, etc in line. This brings development and growth, for if we pursue enduring values, then we shall endure too. But if we labour for food that perishes, we bring destruction and perish at the end of the day.

Imagine the destruction targeted at St Stephen out of mere jealousy and pride. Those men were working to protect their self-image for the moment. They had to heap up lies against St Stephen, but he continued to radiate beauty and glory since eternal salvation in Christ Jesus was his ultimate target. And such is the angelic face radiated by all who carry out their daily responsibilities without pursuing vanity, but labouring for the food which endures, even to eternal life. Amen.

 

Fr Jude Chinwenwa Nwachukwu, C.Ss.R
Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church,
Tedi-Muwo, Lagos.
Monday April 19^th, 2021.
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