In Genesis, we read of the importance that Isaac planned what may be one of his last meals. It was important to him to have his son Jacob provide this meal; however, Esau served him the meal Rebekah prepared. It appears Isaac was most pleased with his meal, and though Esau attempted to deceive his identity, his father still blessed him abundantly. So it is with our Lord! He blesses all his children regardless of who they are and not because they deserve it. Instead, it is because of who God is – our God of limitless, enduring, and perfect love.

Matthew’s gospel resounds the good news of newness! The old garment will shred like unshrunk cloth as old rules and traditions become obsolete. Because of the newness in having God’s Spirit within us, we are transformed and empowered and embrace this newness as our way of life. In personally accepting Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we are to love God with a new clean heart above all else. This love exists in all aspects of our lives – love, mercy, and compassion extending to all God’s children. Can we imagine what the world would be like if all embraced the newness of God’s love? Can we imagine a world without poverty, malice, war, and hatred?

Saint Peter Julian Eymard exemplified and encouraged all to embrace the bread of life present in the gift of the Eucharist. His devotion to a life of prayer, holiness, and charity was the personification of the Gospel message. Through our reception of Christ’s body and blood, we give thanks for the love and redemption Jesus gives us, and the Holy Spirit empowers us to go forth and be God’s heart, hands, and genuine love.t

Prayer:

We praise you, Lord, giver of the newness of life and love. We listen for your voice and thank you for calling us to be your children. Open our ears, Lord, that we may recognize your voice whispering within our hearts and help us to be willing to share ourselves with others unselfishly. Amen.