We can view everything which Jesus did and said from the aspect of "formation". His formation work is not limited to those passages where the evangelists refer to his teachings. All of Jesus' interactions with his disciples were formative. It is, moreover, important for us to pay attention not only to his work but also to his methodology.

Today's Gospel passage gives us a good example. When some of his followers broke away and refused to "remain in his company any longer" Jesus did not address the Twelve in any placating way, as if he were to say to them: "Don't go away - I will explain myself more clearly." Though he spoke gently to them and perhaps even with some sadness in his voice, nevertheless he continued to challenge them: "Will you also go away?" He was calling them to reflection, responsibility and decision. He was challenging them to freedom, the freedom to trust him even when they did not understand.

Peter did not say or suggest that he and the others understood Jesus' doctrine about the bread of life. He rather responded in terms of their relationship with Jesus, a relationship that nothing could replace.