The Lord gave us bread from heaven. — Psalm 78:24

Mass Readings: Exodus 16:2-4,12-15 / Ephesians 4:17,20-24 / John 6:24-35 

Bread of Life 

In today’s Gospel Jesus says, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst.” When I receive Holy Communion, it’s easy for me to forget what I’m doing. How often do I give proper thanks for this great gift? 

It helps me when I think of the Annunciation. Mary received her own Lord into her body. She nurtured the life of baby Jesus within her. She brought Jesus in her womb to visit and serve her cousin Elizabeth. When we receive Holy Communion, we too can nurture that Divine Life within us. We can bring Jesus with us in our acts of service. In doing this, our deepest hunger and thirst — for the living God — becomes fulfilled. 

Prayer: Dear Jesus, help me treasure the gift of Holy Communion the way Your mother treasured You.