Most of the greatest mysteries involve following a trail of clues left behind. The path to eternal life is no different. We need the eyes to see and the faith to believe.

I love how God gently guides us in his word and spirit in the Old and New Testaments. He has left us an obvious “trail of bread” woven throughout the centuries that leads us directly to the source and assurance of eternal life. From the Priesthood of Melchizedek to the Passover, the manna in the desert and the feeding of the 5,000 bread are used and given to feed our physical hunger as they lead us to the ultimate source and summit of our faith – The bread that satisfies the soul.

Today’s Gospel recounts the feeding of the 5,000. It is the first of two miracles recounted in all four gospels. The other miracle of miracles is the resurrection of Jesus Christ! It, too, is preceded by a supper in which bread plays a key element that leads us to understand the mysteries of the mysteries.

A simple piece of bread becomes the risen and glorious Jesus Christ. Our faith and faithfulness to who is present becomes our surety of eternal life.

Follow the trail of bread. Don’t skip ahead to the end. Devour the words in the Book of Life. It is a beautiful testimony of what our benevolent God is willing to sacrifice for each and every one of his children. At every Mass, we have the unbelievable opportunity to consume the bread of life. The miracle of the bread multiplied to feed the 5,000 is directly linked to the miracle of our resurrection.“Amen, Amen, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life. I am the bread of life.”

The mystery is solved. Jesus said it. I believe it. Do you?

Let us Pray:

My God, I believe, I adore, I hope, and I love you! My God, I believe, I adore, I hope, and I love you! My God, I believe, I adore, I hope, and I love you! (Opening line of Angel in Fatima Prayer)