The Bread of Life
Today's discourse is a reminder that Christ is the true "Bread of Life," and He desires a relationship with all of us. We read Jesus' words saying, "I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever, and the bread that I will give is my Flesh for the life of the world" (Jn 6:51).
We read Jesus' words that the Manna given to the Israelites in the desert was sure to bring them into deeper communion; however, the Manna of the desert did not bring eternal life. "Your ancestors ate the manna in the desert, but they died; this is the bread that comes down from heaven so that one may eat it and not die." Biblical scholars have understood today's reading as a precursor to the Eucharist, and John 6 teaches us that eternal life can only be found in Him.
When we hear the Priest's words say, "The mystery of faith," this is the declarative statement about the Holy Eucharist being present. Yes, it is truly a mystery of faith, and Christ wants to deepen our faith through this sacrament. Trust that He desires nothing more than for us to be in communion with Him and cherish the Sacrament of Holy Communion, as this is the sacred opportunity to consume His Body and Blood.
While we celebrate the May crowning at Mass, let us be reverent, thankful, and faithful that Christ who loves us is truly present in the Eucharist.
Each celebration of the Eucharist makes sacramentally present the gift that the crucified Lord made of his life, for us and for the whole world. (Sacramentum Caritatis, 88, 2007)
