Abiding in Christ

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

 

In our journey of faith, there are moments when the words of Scripture resonate deeply with our spirits, challenging us to explore the depths of our relationship with God.  This week's reflection is inspired by John 6:56-69, a passage that invites us to ponder what it truly means to abide in Christ.

 

In this passage, Jesus speaks with profound intimacy, saying, "Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in them" (John 6:56).  This statement, startling and radical to many who heard it, captures the heart of Christian discipleship, abiding in Christ. But what does it mean to "eat His flesh and drink His blood"? And why did these words cause so many to turn away?

 

Jesus was not speaking literally but was instead inviting His followers into a deep, spiritual communion with Him.  To eat His flesh and drink His blood symbolizes accepting Jesus wholly, His teachings, His sacrifice, and His very life. It’s a call to allow Him to nourish our souls, to be so united with Him that His life becomes ours.

 

However, this teaching was hard for many to accept.  The Gospel tells us that "many of His disciples turned back and no longer followed Him" (John 6:66).  They were offended, perhaps overwhelmed by the depth of commitment for which Jesus was asking. Following Jesus is not merely about admiration from a distance; it requires a willingness to be transformed by Him, to let go of our own ways, and to embrace the life He offers.

 

This passage challenges us to examine our own responses to Jesus' teachings.  Are we like those who turned away when the message became difficult, or do we, like Peter, respond with faith even when we don't fully understand? Peter's words, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life" (John 6:68), express a pro-found truth: There is no other source of life and hope but in Christ.

 

As we reflect on this passage, we are reminded that abiding in Christ is a daily commitment.  It means choosing Him above all else, allowing His presence to shape our thoughts, words, and actions.  It means trusting in His promise that "the one who feeds on me will live because of me" (John 6:57).

 

In a world filled with distractions and competing voices, may we hold fast and stand firm to Christ, the Bread of Life. Let us not be discouraged by the challenges of discipleship, but be strengthened by the truth that in Him, we find true life.

 

As we continue our walk with the Lord, let us encourage one another to remain steadfast in faith, even when the path is difficult. Jesus offers us not only sustenance for this life but the promise of eternal life. Let us, therefore, choose to abide in Him, knowing that He is our source of strength, hope and peace.


In Christ's love,

Rev Kamar Prendergast


By Archdeacon Patrick Cunningham October 10, 2025
As God’s stewards, we must care for our health and the Earth. Live well, act responsibly, and promote healing for all creation.
By Icy Porter October 10, 2025
Breast cancer is not the end—it’s a call to faith, courage, and vigilance. Early detection saves lives.
By Father Kamar Prendergast October 6, 2025
Health Month reminds us that true wellness comes through prayer, healing, and forgiveness—nurturing body, mind, and spirit in God’s grace.
Bishop wearing a mitre, touching a person's head in an outdoor setting with other people present.
By St Luke's Church September 30, 2025
The Enthronement of the Rt Rev Leon Paul Golding 15th Bishop of Jamaica and the Cayman Islands at the Cathedral of St Jago de la Vega on September 28, 2025.
By Archdeacon Patrick Cunningham September 29, 2025
Brothers Crispin & Crispinian faced martyrdom in Psalm 79, but trusted God to bring hope, even in suffering, ruin, and seeming defeat.
By Colin Barrett September 24, 2025
The book of Jeremiah speaks of the Widow’s Mite which shows true sacrifice - giving all in faith, not abundance. God honors cheerful, surrendered giving.
By Father Kamar Prendergast September 15, 2025
God’s Word renews us, unites us as Christ’s body, and calls us to live His mission - bringing hope, healing, and joy to the world.
By Peter DePass September 15, 2025
Jesus warns of wars, disasters, and evil but urges us to stay faithful, calm, and close to Him through prayer, scripture, and compassion.
By Allison Fenton September 15, 2025
Prayer deepens faith, builds community, and reminds us to pray anytime, anywhere - trusting that God hears and answers our prayers.
By Sonia Stewart-Gordon September 4, 2025
We all carry hidden scars from past hurts. True healing comes through Christ, who cares, heals, and sets us free when we surrender all to Him.
By Archdeacon Patrick Cunningham August 27, 2025
Prayer, healing and forgiveness guide us to commune with God, bring wholeness, and live with mercy and grace.
By Adapted from Psalm 124 by Joan Stott August 25, 2025
If God had not been with us, we would be overwhelmed. But God is our Helper, ever faithful, calming our fears and guiding us with His steadfast love.
Hands holding eyeglasses in front of an eye chart.
By Adapted from Amazing Grace - 366 Inspiring Hymn Stories For Daily Devotions August 23, 2025
Vision brings purpose—without it, we perish. True Christian vision sees Christ as our guide, treasure, and light, above riches or praise.
By Donna-Marie Bennett August 23, 2025
A new school year begins with hope amid challenges; like the Syrophoenician woman, let us act in faith, trusting God's limitless grace.
By Father Kamar Prendergast August 23, 2025
Jesus calls us to radical love—blessing enemies, giving freely, and forgiving fully—reflecting God's mercy in a broken world.
By Archdeacon Patrick Cunningham August 23, 2025
Transfiguration reminds us prayer is powerful, purposeful, and transformative—more than words, it's deep connection with God.
By Donna-Marie Bennett August 23, 2025
Peace, justice, and love are key to healing a broken world. We're all called to act, speak, and love our neighbours without condition.
By Archdeacon Patrick Cunningham August 23, 2025
A journey from fear to joy—Psalm 30 reminds us of life's fragility, God's grace, and the deep relief of healing after despair.
By Archdeacon Patrick Cunningham August 19, 2025
Each one of us is given a special gift by God which should be used to glorify His name and to serve others.
By St Luke's Church August 11, 2025
A father guides, teaches, and nurtures as a God-given role model and foundation, shown through examples in the Bible.
More Posts