Today’s Liturgy of the Word ends with Jesus saying, “I am the bread of life;
whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst.”

After Pentecost, the Sanhedrin was losing control and tried to squelch the apostles (Acts 5: 34-39) by controlling what was being taught and denying the early Christian’s understanding of God’s persistent love for us.  It is now 2000 years later, and we realize the world still doesn’t want to acknowledge Jesus’ love and the Holy Spirit as providing for all our needs. Christianity hasn’t failed, but our following Jesus is relatively ignored.

Two years ago, a traveling presentation was hosted at Saint Ann’s Shrine of occasions over the last +800 years of “miracles” involving consecrated hosts that bled.  Some hosts were protectively set aside.  Over time, some of these hosts were observed and carefully examined.  The red “liquid” was actual blood, and all were the same blood type, AB+.  Additional notes were taken on the samples, all of which pointed to shared biological similarities.  This project travels to parishes across the country upon request. The message and miracle are still alive for those who have faith.

So, what do we do?  The Holy Trinity—Father, Son, and Spirit—is very involved in our lives.  We just need to relax and be attentive to their gentle nudges to be loving sisters and brothers to each other and to the people we interact with.  We don’t need to “come on strong”.  We are simply witnesses walking the face of the earth, hopefully encouraging people by example, supporting those who need support, and simply loving each and every one we come in contact with.  So, let’s walk in faith and encourage each other.

Let Us Pray:

Holy Spirit, our brother Jesus gave us the example of being obedient to our Father, healing the breach of Adam and Eve, and reopening the gates of heaven for us.  We have grown up in a world where change is a constant issue, beginning at birth for us. Do not let us be distracted from searching for you in the people we encounter, because those we meet are the ones who are available to share your grace with us.  Gently teach us to open our eyes, hold each other’s hands, and share your gifts, given to all of us. Amen.