I Am the Bread of Life

Readings:  Acts 8: 1-8; Jn 6: 35-40

Dear friends we are called to be the living message of the Gospel. In the first reading we see the great zeal of the apostles who preached the message of Christ even amidst difficulties and suffering. The first reading tells us that many came to welcome the message of Christ based on what they heard and saw them for themselves. In other words, the message of Christ brought life and newness in the life of the people. The same message is also found in today’s Gospel reading. Jesus says, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never be hungry; he who believes in me will never thirst.” (Jn 6: 35). At first he states to us who he is taking the symbol of bread, just like the bread sustains life and assures the continuity of life so also Jesus.  Thereafter, he extends an invitation with a firm assurance that he will not abandon them or turn them out “Whoever comes to me I shall not turn him away... I should lose nothing. (Jn 6: 37-39). This particular verse tells us the clear mind of God that he wants his sons and daughters to be with him. Just like the shepherd gathers his own sheep without being lost, so also Jesus. I am sure there might have been moments in our lives, where we felt the comforting presence of Jesus in our lives, so let us re-live those moments once again and be assured that Jesus does not abandon me.