Memorial of Saint Francis Xavier, Priest

[Jesus] took the seven loaves and the fish, gave thanks, broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, who in turn gave them to the crowds. They all ate and were satisfied.

Once again, Jesus feeds a multitude with only a few fish and several loaves of bread. Judging by how often it is mentioned in the gospels, this is the most important miracle in the life of Jesus. No other miracle warrants six mentions. It doesn’t take a stretch of the imagination to see the connection with the Eucharist. Like at the Last Supper, Jesus takes, blesses (or gives thanks), breaks, and gives. Jesus did this not only with bread and wine; he did it with his whole life.

Matthew goes out of his way to mention that Jesus was moved with pity for the crowd that had gathered. The compassion of Jesus is also evident in his institution of the Eucharist. It was his way of continuing to minister to people today, as he did with those he encountered in his own day. It was his way of remaining with us throughout our lives —through his teaching, his healing, his deep care and concern for all his people.

When we celebrate the Eucharist, we actualize once again Jesus’ loving care and concern for us. This time, however, it is not only physical food that he offers us. It is his very self. It is his way of inviting us to join with him in spreading his love and compassion to those we encounter in our own lives. We, like the Twelve or the seven mentioned today, have been given enough leftovers to feed the thousands we meet in our own lives.

When I accept the bread of Christ, are my hands out only to receive, or to give?

Let Us Pray:

O Jesus, give me a deeper appreciation of the Eucharist I celebrate so frequently. May I embody your compassion for all who came to you.