21st SUN, YR B: Joshua 24:1-2a, 15-17, 18b; Ephesians 5:2a, 25-32; John 6: 60-69
Isn’t it interesting that unlike so many church-sponsored programs, or social media “influencers,” Jesus is not concerned about numbers? He does not attempt to prevent disciples—disciples, not just curious people—from leaving him. He does not bully or bribe people to support him because he seeks no power over them. His hope is that people will come to believe.
Faith cannot be coerced or legislated; if it is not freely given, it perverts the living trust which is the substance of faith. Unless one freely trusts and receives what God offers through Jesus, then the mere suspension of disbelief displaces faith, and what a poor substitute that is! How can it ever survive pressure, anxiety or doubt?
Consistently Jesus asks his closest followers, Do you also want to leave? There is no condemnation in the question. But if they stay with him, the choice must be free.
If the response—Master, to whom shall we go?—smacks of disillusionment, remember what that word means: to be disabused of my illusions. When he first followed Jesus, Peter probably never expected that Jesus would call himself the Bread of Life. But his rapport with Jesus impels Peter to trust him, even if he doesn’t understand, even if his words challenge his presuppositions and religious habits.
Unlike church programs or social media influencers, Jesus is not afraid of disillusionment or to accompany the disillusioned to enlightenment.
Do I have anything to fear from losing my illusions?