SAINTS JOACHIM AND ANNE, PARENTS OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY

What is this?

While it’s not obvious in translation, the original Hebrew in this passage contains some clever wordplay that we might call a divine “dad joke.” We might think that the word “manna” is Hebrew for “bread from heaven.” But it simply means “What is this?” The joke? That’s probably what the Israelites said when this miracle food first appeared—What is this? And the word stuck.

The word “manna” didn’t signify bewilderment for long. As the people realized that this was God’s wondrous provision for their desert journey, “manna” became a central sign to them of the Lord’s love and care. So much so that they preserved it, along with the Ten Commandments, in the ark of the covenant (Exodus 16:32-34).

If we were to reflect on our own “wilderness” journey, we’d probably find we aren’t so different from the Israelites. We may have times when we complain as they did, or times when we question whether God really knows what he’s doing. We may wonder if we will ever really break free from a pattern of sin or if the promises of God are really meant for us.

But along the path there are also signs that reassure us, signs of God’s goodness and providence in our lives pointing us to the Lord’s presence. Maybe it’s a passage from Scripture or a hymn sung at Mass. Maybe it’s a word of encouragement from a friend or a moment of consolation in prayer. It could be as simple as the smell of honeysuckle in the wind or the sound of a child laughing. And of course there’s the greatest sign, the Eucharist, Jesus’ own living Bread of Life. The possibilities are endless because God himself is endless! All of these are our own “manna,” signs from the Spirit telling us that Jesus is with us and giving us hope for our journey.

When it feels like the wilderness is getting the best of you, remember to look for the “manna” around you. Keep your eyes open for whatever sign the Lord may want to give you. Especially if something makes you ask, “What is it?” look a little closer. It could be exactly the sign you need!

“Thank you, Jesus, for sending me signs that sustain me and fill me with hope!”

Exodus 16:1-5, 9-15
Psalm 78:18-19, 23-28
Matthew 13:1-9