Yesterday I was so hungry! All I really wanted was a not-so-good-for-me corny dog. I can’t remember the last time I had one of these. Instead, I settled for a nice bowl of homemade vegetable soup to satisfy my physical hunger. During Lent, I tried to be present at the Eucharist as often as possible. I always left more than satisfied; I left spiritually fulfilled and grateful. Now, what do I do?

In today’s Gospel, I am called to accomplish the works of God – but how? I’m just an elderly lady trying to do my best each day. I chose to follow the Beatitudes in making a difference in my life, for in helping others, I am helping myself. We are all children of God, and he blesses those who love and care for his creation. Maybe I’ll take someone a corny dog for lunch today.

The Galileans searched for him because he had fed them in the wilderness. Jesus wanted them to consider him the provider of food for eternal life, not just for temporary nourishment. He wants people to search for him, not for what he can give us, but simply to desire him for who he is. Jesus himself is the bread of life who satisfies our deepest hungers. In the celebration of the Eucharist, we are offered the bread and wine of eternal life. It’s what he offers us, the sharing in his own life. Eucharist is not a time just for you and Jesus; it is meant to build community so that we all become what we receive, the Body of Christ.

What is your experience when you receive the bread of life? Do you receive him with no thought or prayer? Is it a mindless action, or do you feel holy and sacred?

Let us pray:

Lord, you alone can satisfy the deepest hunger in our hearts. May we always desire the unfading bread so that we may be satisfied in you alone! Nourish and strengthen me that I may serve you with great joy, generosity, and enthusiasm all the days of my life. Amen.