The True Source of Health

Scripture

Our verse for today comes from John 6:51, ” I am the living bread which came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will lie forever. “

Background

I grew up having learned about Ponce de León and his quest to find the Fountain of Youth in the early 16th century. Supposedly, he searched for these miraculous waters throughout parts of Florida, having landed and begun his legendary expedition in St. Augustine. To no one’s surprise looking back, de León was unsuccessful. But what I am surprised to discover is that the entire tale of de León and the Fountain is apparently a myth. As I read stories online, the facts of history have presumably been updated to reflect a more accurate rendering of de León’s journey. There is a good chance that he landed in what is now Florida over 100 miles south of St. Augustine, and it is extremely probable that he was not looking for the Fountain of Youth at all. In the 21st century, we have many ways offered to us to supposedly extend our youthful look and energy level. Countless products promise to rejuvenate our skin and bring back that youthful glow. Powders and supplements guarantee energy, strength and muscle while burning off the unwanted fat and excess. If you want to look better or different than you do now, there is something out there for you. But if you want to truly live forever, there is only one option. And it, too, comes with a cost. Some of the protein drinks contain arsenic, lead and mercury, which we know can have damaging effects on the body. Skin care products do not put harmful metals in your body, but they do lighten your wallet, even more so than the protein supplements.

Application

And where will these all get you? If Ponce de León, or someone else, had found what legend says was out there, how much difference would it have made? For some of us, it looks and sounds like we are more interested in our own version of forever, and how we’ll look getting there, than we are in the eternal life that Jesus offered. Based on the time and resources spent, it might be hard to argue otherwise. I don’t think that’s the version of your history that you really want to be writing. So, set the record straight, and call off the quest.

Charge

As we seek Him today, let Him be all and only what you seek after.