The Bread of Life

Eighteenth Sunday in

Ordinary Time

01 August 2021 

 

First Reading: EX 16:2-4, 12-15

Responsorial Psalm: PS 78:3-4, 23-24, 25, 54

Second Reading: EPH 4:17, 20-24

Gospel: JN 6:24-35

 

Reflection

By: Gary Tulabut

 

In one article or another, I have shared about the time when I was a young 10-year-old apprentice of the Knights of the Blessed Sacrament. I remember vividly when we were asked by our elders in the group what our reason was for joining the organization of altar servers. Our answer, almost in unison was, "To serve Jesus." I know most of us do not really understood what those words really meant. In fact, some leaders in that meeting even asked us again, "Are you sure it's not about the girls?"

We might have different motives in serving, not only as little kids then but, even as grown ups. This is probably the reason why different strategies are still deployed just to attract attendees to, let's say, charismatic communities. Some are attracted to loud live-band-led worship accompanied by beautiful lights in an airconditioned hall. Some are attracted to the wonderful talks delivered by charismatic speakers. Some are looking for new acquaintances, or someone to share life stories with. Still, some would only attend because there is free food or unlimited coffee.

Today in the Gospel, Jesus said to the crowd that were following Him, "Amen, amen, I say to you, you are looking for me not because you saw the signs but because you ate the loaves and were filled. Do not work for food that perishes but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For on him the Father, God, has set his seal." (John 6:26-27)

The reasons that I enumerated above may seem to look like the food that perishes. But God sometimes may use them to lead us to the food that endures for eternal life.

 

Prayer

 

Holy Spirit, guide us to seek not only the food that perishes, but lead us to the Bread of Life. Amen.