The Gospel of John, chapter 6:35

Yesterday’s blog spoke about the multiplication of the loaves and fishes as being a forerunner to Jesus’ teaching on the Eucharist. Today’s blog brings us to the heart of the matter; that Jesus is the bread of life that satisfies every hunger.

The folks in today’s gospel who sought out Jesus were led to him not by their faith, but by their stomachs. The crowd was looking for a handout, a bellyful of bread. They did not understand that the eating of the bread was a sign of greater partaking. They were hungry, plain and simple, and they wanted bread. Jesus loses no time moving the crowd to recognize a deeper sort of hunger. He speaks to them of lasting bread, bread that nourishes not just life, but life eternal. Thinking that they had to fast or do some “work,” to get this bread, the people ask what they must do. Jesus tells them to believe in him.

This was not the answer the folks expected, so they ask Jesus for a sign that would earn their faith. For example, a sign such as the manna God sent their forebears. Jesus then explains that the manna was but perishable bread. The bread He brings is imperishable, the true bread come from God. The people, still not understanding, jump at Jesus’ offer. Then Jesus delivers the punch line of his message: “I myself am the bread of life.”

And the people? They still did not recognize that the Messiah for whom they’ve been waiting for generations to see is standing before them. We keep making the same mistake. When someone presents you with the host at mass and says, “The Body of Christ,” remember, this is the bread you’ve been waiting for. This bread is the bread of life.

Before we eat the bread that is the Body of Christ, we say “Amen.” This is more than a declaration of faith. It is a pledge that says, Yes, I will be the Body of Christ for others. I will be like this living bread. I will be broken for others! Understand this when you receive the Eucharist.

Recognize that you are promising to be like Christ whom you have received.

Fr. Hugh Duffy