Sesame seed. Artisan. Cinnamon raisin. Gluten free. Bread comes in many varieties. Groceries shelve row upon row of brown, white, and speckled slices to delight. Since ancient times, bread has been a staple for people.
Each region utilizes resources at hand to thrive. Early farmers grew wheat and barley near the Nile. East Asians cultivated rice. The Americas raised maize. Sub-Saharan Africans domesticated sorghum, as recorded in “The History of Bread.”
Bread provides nutrients. “Whole wheat bread is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including several B vitamins, manganese, folate, selenium, zinc, magnesium, calcium, iron, and vitamin D,” according to Malia Frey in a medically reviewed article about nutrition.
With these health benefits, it is no surprise Jesus compared himself with the food people need to survive. “I am the bread of life,” Jesus said. “Whoever comes to me will never go hungry…” (John 6:35 NIV).
His statement echoes the Old Testament teaching when God delivered the Hebrews from slavery in Egypt. Moses told the Israelites, “Man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord” (Deuteronomy 8:3 NIV).
The next time you make a sandwich or toast a piece of bread, thank God for His provision. Remember that anyone who desires spiritual truth will be satisfied. “Whoever comes to me I will never drive away,” Jesus promised in John 6:37 NIV.
What is your need today? Ask Jesus to supply. He hears you and will be delighted to help.
Today’s prayer:
Dear Lord, I am surrounded by donuts, Oreos, and pizza, but I long for life’s deeper meaning. Could you please help me understand your spiritual truths so that my life has a good purpose and I am satisfied? Amen.
Resources:
Article about making an oven like those in ancient Israel to bake bread:
Full article about the history of bread:
http://www.historyofbread.com/
Top 10 American Foods:
https://www.inthekitchenwithmatt.com/most-popular-foods-in-america
Bread Nutrition Facts by Malia Frey:
https://www.verywellfit.com/bread-nutrition-facts-calories-and-health-benefits-4114942
