Advent in Narnia: The Bread of Life 12/04/2019

Today’s chapter continues to discuss Edmund and his fixation with “Turkish Delight” or as C. S. Lewis calls it in his book, “bad magic food.” Edmund no longer has an appetite for regular and nutritious food. He becomes addicted to the “bad magic food” both physically and spiritually. He is under the power of the White Witch and he doesn’t seem to notice.

“Then Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is that which comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” They said to him, “Sir, give us this bread always.” Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” ~John 6:32-35

Have you ever been in a similar situation? Many things can become addictive and unhealthy. Spending too much time on social media; time online gaming; watching TV; medication, alcohol, caffeine, food, sports…get the idea. None of these are necessarily bad, they just need to be in moderation. Time management can help accomplish moderation, making a list of things you want to complete in a specific time frame can help; relying on a trusted friend to talk with when you’re struggling. *I used to be obsessed with watching TV, I would record all my favorite shows and on my weekends I would watch them. I basically barricaded myself in my home and literally camped out in front of my TV for hours. One day I decided, I can’t live and continue this weekly cycle. I gave my TV away and over time I didn’t really miss it. It’s been more than 5 years and I just recently started thinking about getting another TV. I feel I’m more disciplined now, I’m not going to make any rash decisions.

Jesus tells us that He is the Bread of Life! What does that even mean? Jesus feeds us spiritually through relationship with Him! Indeed, we all are hungry in real ways and in those situations God is providing, He may not be sending mana from Heaven to us, but He most certainly uses other humans to provide life sustaining nutrition to those in need.

Are there things you practice to stay healthy with Jesus? Here’s a few suggestions:

• Read your Bible

• Attend a worship service

• Join a group that participated in activities you enjoy.

• Spread the love of Jesus with someone new every day!

• Pray in the morning.

• Pray before bed.

• Pray in the i between time.

Questions for Reflection:

What are some “bad magic foods” in your life?

Do you ever hunger for Jesus? Describe what that feels like?

When thinking about Jesus as the “Bread of Life, what images come to mind?

Finally, from those imagined images what do they mean for your spiritual growth within the your church community and your relationship with God?

~Peace & Hope

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://biblia.com/