Hunger and Thirst

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled (Mt 5:6 NIV)

Anyone who has visited the vast expanse of Grand Canyon and contemplated hiking below the rim has no doubt read numerous warnings about the perils of conducting such an undertaking without preparation – namely adequate water for a hike of any distance, and salty, electrolyte-replenishing  foods for moderate and longer distance hikes.  The trailheads and main hiking trails of Grand Canyon are well-marked to warn novice hikers that the terrain and climate of Grand Canyon are both unforgiving and unpredictable.  But every year, scores of inexperienced hikers require assisted evacuation from the canyon because they ignored addressing the most basic of their physical survival needs – food and water.  In many cases, sadly, such carelessness is paid for by loss of life.

God promises to fill those who have both a hunger and a thirst for righteousness.  When we refuse to acknowledge our lack of hunger and thirst for righteousness, we are like the ill-prepared hikers who descend into Grand Canyon completely unprepared for their short-term and long-term survival needs.  We jeopardize our spiritual well-being when we ignore our spiritual hunger and thirst.  But when we actively hunger and thirst  for righteousness, Jesus – our Bread of Life – promises to fill us so that we will never be hungry or thirsty.  Jesus said:   ‘I am the bread of life.  He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty’ (Jn 6:35 NIV).

Prayer:  Lord, you promise to fill my spiritual needs so that I hunger and thirst no more.   Make me humble to acknowledge my needs, and grateful for Your immeasurable love and promise to keep me filled.  Amen.