The Bread of Life

August 4, Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Daily Readings: Exodus 16:2-4, 12-15; Ephesians 4:17, 20-24; John 6:24-35

The first reading recounts the Israelites in the wilderness, struggling with limited resources. God hears their cries and provides manna, teaching them to trust in His provision.

In the second reading, St. Paul emphasizes renewing the mind. Believers are made new in Christ and should speak truthfully, bear with one another patiently, and forgive as God has forgiven them.

The Gospel portrays Jesus as the Bread of Life, offering eternal life to those who come to Him. Jesus, the living bread from heaven, provides spiritual nourishment that satisfies the deepest hunger of the soul.

God meets the needs of His children, offering both physical and spiritual nourishment. St. Augustine said, “The Eucharist is a mysterious and wonderful sacrament, in which Christ gives Himself to us as our bread and our food.” The Holy Communion nourishes and strengthens us daily.

We need physical sustenance, but we were created for a greater purpose: a relationship with God and eternal life with Him. Jesus is the Bread of Life who satisfies our deepest longings. St. Louis de Montfort taught that “the Holy Eucharist is the center of our life, the source of our strength, the object of our love.” We belong to God, the author of our life.

Call to Action for Catholic Living: Trust in God’s provision and remember that the Eucharist is the sacrament of unity, uniting us with Christ and each other. Reflect this newness by living truthfully, patiently, and kindly, forgiving one another.

Let us continue to live our new life in the presence of the Eucharist as new creations. Amen.