Friends,
You know, several Sunday’s we have reflected on Jesus’ good stories, presenting himself as the “Bread of Life…that came down from Heaven.” Jesus even added that whoever eats this bread will live forever, and the bread he gives to the world is his flesh (John 6:51). These words have become hard teaching for the Jews and disciples to understand and accept. The Jews have already argued among themselves, questioning how this man gives us his flesh to eat? (v. 52). They have concluded that it is hard teaching unworthy of listening. After this, today’s gospel, even the disciples exclaimed that it is a hard saying; who can listen to it?
“Will you also go away?”. It is Jesus’ question to his disciples in today’s Gospel text. The question relates to Joshua’s question in the first reading, where he asks the people for a choice either to follow God who has been faithful to them or other pagan gods as their Fathers did. Jesus’ question involves making a renewed commitment based on love. This question again is a disturbing one and should provoke a resounding answer in our hearts personally. At the challenging times we are going through, the rising covid situation, volatile peace in different parts of the world, economic challenges, family struggles, a growing skepticism to religion, and many others, this question is addressed to each one of us.
Are you ready amid the difficulties and challenges in our world to still choose Jesus, the Christ, and follow him closely? We do this through prayer and service to others, receiving sacraments, and building the communities of faith in communion with the bishop. Peter gives the answer that should bring comfort in our hearts individually. “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life”, Peter answered. This answer resonates with that of the Israelites in the first reading. “Far be it from us to forsake the Lord…” (Joshua 24:15-18), answered the people. The Psalmist answers, we have tasted your goodness, O Lord. (Psalm 34), and St. Paul, in the second reading, responds, in you Lord, is profound love. Faith in Jesus is imbued with love.
Christian Action This Week: Live a faith that is animated by love for God and your neighbor.
Joy and Peace
