Yesterday was the 18th Sunday in Ordinary Time, and the readings were on the “Bread of Life” theme which follows on the previous week’s story of the miraculous feeding of the multitude with a few loaves and fishes. In my homily, I was trying to make connections to a few related thoughts: First, that what seemed true of Jesus’ followers is probably often true of us – that we don’t “get it,” that is, we probably don’t grasp the fullness of the gift, or its meaning or potential for our everyday lives. It’s not merely bread to allay physical hunger. It’s a gift of himself - direct, immediate, absolutely present in our lives. In that sense, it's the original "soul food," containing everything we need for the spiritual journey. Does that resonate with you? Do you get it, you think, or is it tough to get your mind around it?
Another point I tried for is that this gift of his own self comes to us not only in communion – in the consecrated bread and wine. It is surely present there, but also in the Word of God we receive in the Scriptures, the homily, the prayers. And it is present in all of us gathered together, Christ present in us. Each of these aspects is as important and integral as the others. Make sense? What do you think of this?
And finally, I hoped to say to us all: If you’re struggling with faith, with belief, with knowing Christ, it’s ok. We all struggle. Remember, your involvement, your very presence at the table says you are hoping to respond to God, and to hear God’s voice some more. You're in the conversation! Please don’t be hard on yourself, or think you’re just not trying hard enough. “I’m not spiritual enough,” someone said. Nonsense – you’re fine, you’re one of us, you came from God and God is with you. Ask your questions, and become as willing as you can. Belief, and its deeper cousin, faith, will come to us all, each in different ways and at different times. But doubt and struggle are not signs of weakness or failure. What do you think of this idea?
Please, share your comments. And blessings for the day!
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I remember as a teenager, after a long retreat day, sharing Eucharist with my school mates. We sat crosslegged on the floor and passed the bread and wine. After a day of reflection and walking and being present, that moment of sharing the bread and wine gave me such a true sense of the gift.
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