The "Bread of Life"

08-01-2021Weekly ReflectionFr. James Aboyi, V.C.

Beginning last Sunday through the last Sunday of this month, the Gospel is centered on the theme of “Bread of Life.” Last Sunday we heard Jesus feed 5,000 people from five loaves and two fish. This particular miracle drew special attention from the people more than all other miracles He performed throughout His ministry on earth. We are told that many people were looking for him and asking him to repeat the loaves and fishes miracle. The multiplication of loaves in the Gospel reminded the people about the event in today’s first Reading when God rained down bread/mana from the sky daily. The people saw Jesus as the new Moses so they wanted him to repeat the miracle daily for them like Moses. Jesus understood the deepest desires of the people even more than themselves. He told them He would give them the Bread of Life so those who eat it will never hunger again. This promise was fulfilled in the institution of the Eucharist.

Human beings need two basic kinds of food to attain perfect happiness and satisfaction: food for the body and the food for the soul, the Eucharist. Jesus reminds us to work for the Bread of Life that lasts forever. That is why He says in Matthew 4:4, “One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” And in John 4:34 He says, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent me and to complete his work.” He multiplied the bread and fish only as a sign pointing to the higher spiritual food, the Eucharist.

Have you ever felt emptiness deep down within you? Do you try drinking, drugs, gambling, or material acquisition in an attempt to fi nd happiness? Jesus reminds us today that true peace and happiness only comes from God. When we receive Him in the Eucharist, He nourishes us with the Bread of Life and fills the emptiness in us so that we will no longer be hungry. Thank you and remain blessed.

Fr. James