Jesus multiplies the loaves and fish
JESUS MAFA, 1973

Dear friends,

Today, we will reflect on Isaiah 55:1-5, where the prophet, in the name of the God of Israel, invites us to come and drink from the waters of life, without money and without cost. This passage speaks to us about the universal desire for happiness and fulfillment, and the journey that we must undertake to find it.

Isaiah begins by saying, "Ho, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and you that have no money, come, buy and eat!" These words are an invitation to all people, regardless of their background or station in life. They are a call to recognize our spiritual hunger and to seek nourishment for our souls.

This passage speaks to the heart of Buddhist philosophy, which teaches that all beings have the potential for enlightenment and liberation from suffering. The invitation to drink from the waters of life is a metaphor for the spiritual journey that we must undertake to realize this potential.

Isaiah goes on to say, "Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy?" This is a powerful question that asks us to reflect on the things we pursue in life, and whether they truly bring us happiness. This speaks to the importance of inner values and the cultivation of compassion, which are the true sources of lasting happiness and fulfillment.

Isaiah continues, "Listen carefully to me, and eat what is good, and delight yourselves in rich food." This is an exhortation to listen to the teachings of the prophets and wise ones, and to seek out the spiritual nourishment that they offer. In Buddhism, this is the path of the Dharma, which provides us with the tools we need to transform our minds and hearts.

Finally, Isaiah speaks of the promise that awaits those who undertake this journey of spiritual awakening. He says, "I will make with you an everlasting covenant, my steadfast, sure love for David." This promise speaks to the ultimate goal of the spiritual journey, which is to attain a state of union with the divine. In Buddhism, this is the state of enlightenment or Buddhahood, where one experiences the ultimate truth and wisdom of the universe.

The words of Isaiah speak to the universal longing for happiness and fulfillment, and the journey that we must undertake to find it. These teachings are at the heart of all spiritual traditions, and they offer us a path to transformation and liberation from suffering. May we all heed the call to drink from the waters of life, and may we find the nourishment that our souls crave.