In the years after his death-resurrection-ascension, Christians applied many titles to Jesus – e.g., Messiah, Lord. But during his earthly ministry, what titles did Jesus apply to himself?
The one that appears most frequently seems strange: “Son of Man” – as in the passage in the next post. It is used over 80 times in the Gospels, and only on the lips of Jesus. No one else ever addresses him this way.
But what does it mean?
Unfortunately, no one – neither Jesus, nor any of the New Testament writers – provides an explanation.
In some cases it seems that it could simply mean “a man’s son” – that is, truly human.
However, at times it appears to be related to a passage in the Book of Daniel: “As the visions during the night continued, I saw “One like a son of man coming on the clouds of heaven.” In this case, it suggests a messiah-like person in whom and through whom God brings salvation.
It is a mysterious phrase that conveys the mortal condition of Jesus…and his special dignity…and his eventual coming in glory.
However mysterious its meaning may be, it is a title Jesus used of himself.
[Beginning today, we start reading from what is called the “Bread of Life Discourse” in John. We will continue reading it through the rest of this week.]
After the miracle of the loaves, the crowd saw the disciples get into a boat to head for Capernaum, ad Jesus wasn’t with them. Eventually the people take boats to Capernaum. When they arrive Jesus is already there.
Jesus says that they're looking for him because they enjoyed the bread he gave them. This was food that perishes and was meant to be a sign of a food whose effects never perish – the divine revelation he brings, and the Eucharist. This food is forever.
It’s the old problem, Breaking our necks to get perishables, and overlooking the gifts that last forever.
Connecting with God (prayer), being fed by truths that come down from heaven (the word of God), sharing in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus (the Eucharist).
When my life on earth is coming to an end – and for sure it will – it won’t be fine cuisine that I cherish, but rather the food that lasts forever. Am I eating properly?