Our culture has only one question to determine value – “Does it work?” Jesus takes a different view. After feeding the 5000 He leaves. Most would have continued the ministry. When the people find Him, He challenges their motives –
‘… you are looking for me, not because you saw the signs I performed but because you ate the loaves and had your fill. (John 6:26)
What is the difference between eating bread that came as a miracle and seeing signs? The difference is in the focus. If I look for Jesus because I ate, then I am looking for myself and the focus is on me. If I look because I saw miraculous signs my focus is on Christ and I am looking to worship Him.
Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you.’ (John 6:27)
This focus is seen in our relationship with God. If the focus of my spirituality is on what works, then it is subject to men’s evaluation which inevitably is temporary and ultimately spoils. The fruit Jesus is looking for is the fruit of lives changed by faith. Faith is proven through trust even when things don’t seem to be working –
‘The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.’ (John 6:29)
Are we able to trust Jesus in how He directs rather than try to use Him to get what we want? This is food that endures to eternal life.