For he satisfies the longing soul,
    and the hungry soul he fills with good things. - Psalm 107:9 

One of the paradoxes of life with Jesus is that our feasting leads to a greater hunger. Yes, as the psalmist says, the Lord satisfies the longing soul. That satisfaction does not result in a lethargic stupor, like a large meal might, but rather with an increased appetite for the goodness we find in God alone.

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus declares, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness.” We cultivate that hunger by receiving Christ, tasting and seeing that he is the good and best thing, that he alone fills and satisfies. 

Each Sunday, Jesus welcomes us to the feast of his table. As we partake of his body and blood and are satisfied, our longing for him also grows. Beyond the table, in our own lives, as we draw near to Jesus in Scripture, in prayer, in spiritual practices, we are filled and yet find our desire for him increasing. To receive from Jesus is to want more of and from him. 

As we’ve slowed down a little this month, I’ve heard stories from you these past weeks of the ways you are meeting “Him Who Satisfies Our Longing Hearts,” in the Gospel of John, in prayer alone and together, and in your acts of his service and care in His name. I’m so encouraged by these stories! May these encounters increase our hunger for Jesus.

Toward the end of this month, on the evening of Thursday, June 28th, we’ll have a gathering for prayer and worship at the church. This will be a time for us to draw near to the Lord in the conviction that satisfies our longings. As we do so, we can be confident that He will meet us, and fill us with good things, with the very fullness of himself. 

Hungry in Christ,

Peter+

Ps. Thanks to everyone who has completed the survey regarding the second service. The deadline to complete it is June 25th.