3RD WEEK OF EASTER

You are looking for me not because you saw signs but because you ate the loaves and were filled. 

At first glance, Jesus’ words to the crowd following him in today’s Gospel (John 6:22-29) seem perplexing, perhaps even a little harsh. The people had witnessed him miraculously multiplying the loaves and fishes to feed them. He had not only provided for them in their hunger, but he had also revealed that God’s power and authority rested in him. Doesn’t it make sense that they would search for him again?

But a closer look reveals that Jesus knows what’s on their hearts and minds. They are searching for him because they had eaten and were filled, not necessarily for any other reason. He seems to be saying to them, You ate the bread and were satisfied. But there is one standing before you who can give you bread that will satisfy your deepest hunger. The people were content with being fed physically, but Jesus had so much more to give them—his own Body and Blood.

As followers of Jesus, we sometimes find ourselves acting like the people in that crowd. Certainly there is nothing wrong with asking Jesus to fill our immediate needs. We worry about losing a job or paying our bills. We worry about a loved one battling a serious illness. Of course, we have every reason to be concerned. But if we focus only on these difficulties, we risk missing the real grace of the “spiritual bread” that he gives us at every Eucharist: deeper communion and friendship with him. This is what we truly hunger for.

Today in prayer, put your immediate needs before Jesus with trust and confidence in his care for you. But don’t stop there. Listen to him. Let him tell you what’s on his heart. That’s what good friends do. He may remind you of his steadfast love for you or encourage you in some way that you didn’t expect. Even if you don’t hear anything, sit before him in silence and let him fill you with a sense of his presence and peace. If you look to Jesus with faith that he, and he alone, can satisfy your hunger, you will be amazed at the “bread” he offers you!

“Lord Jesus, help me to look beyond my immediate needs for the ‘food’ that never perishes (John 6:27).”

Acts 6:8-15
Psalm 119:23-24, 26-27, 29-30
John 6:22-29

WORD AMONG US