by Anna Haiar

Hint: It’s not Folgers

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link. 

“I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.”
John 6:35 English Standard Version

Most mornings, the thing that gets me out of bed isn’t an alarm or a to-do list, but the promise of coffee. I picture the warmth of the mug in my hands, the familiar aroma filling the kitchen, the small moment of quiet before the day begins. Some mornings, that cup feels like the reward for facing everything ahead of me. It’s amazing how something so small can feel like enough motivation to step forward.

Of course, coffee isn’t the problem. It’s a good gift, and I’m grateful for it. But that simple morning habit reveals something deeper about the human heart. We are constantly looking for something to give us momentum. Something to carry us through the day. For some, it’s a relationship. For others, it’s success, productivity, a sense of control, or even anger. These things promise energy, purpose, and satisfaction. They whisper, If you have me, you’ll be okay. 

Yet by mid-morning, the coffee is gone. The relationship disappoints. The news cycle shifts. The achievement doesn’t last. Earthly motivators are fleeting by nature, and when we ask them to supply all our needs, they eventually leave us tired and wanting more.

Jesus speaks directly into this hunger:

“I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.”
John 6:35

What we truly long for isn’t just energy to get through the day. Rather, it’s lasting peace, meaning, and rest. Grace offers what no earthly thing can: forgiveness that doesn’t expire, love that isn’t earned, and hope that doesn’t depend on circumstances. Christ doesn’t simply motivate us to action; He sustains us when we are empty.

Tomorrow morning, I’ll still enjoy my coffee. But I want to remember that it is not my source. The cup may wake me up, but only Jesus can fill me. And in Him, I don’t just find motivation to face the day. I find the grace that carries me through it.

Copyright Family of Christ Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado.