Jesus said to them, “Very truly I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you.”  John 6:53

So Jesus knew about Bella Lugosi and Dracula?  Of course not!  But this text from John’s Gospel sure sounds appropriate for the season.  What in the world is Jesus up to?  Beloved, have you ever heard, “you are what you eat”?  This Gospel lesson is an example of this maxim.  

Jesus looks into the eyes of his followers and knows they will need the nourishment and strength that comes from a diet rich in faith, power, justice, peace, love and hope.  That is what he came to earth to bring, and that is the table he sets with his body and blood for those who love and follow him.  This weekend as you pass out (or collect) candy, as you see little ones (and not so little ones) dressed in scary costumes, remember the real treat (no trick), the one who loves us and calls us friend, Jesus, has set a table to nourish us and strengthen us.  Come Beloved, eat and drink your fill and be deeply, deeply nourished.