Give us this bread always

In this Gospel episode, the crowd seems to be ready now to engage with Jesus and to listen to his discourse on the Bread of Life.

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Yet they also persist in contesting the Lord. “What sign can you do, that we may see and believe in you?” (v 30), they ask him.

Jesus' answer moves the discussion forward by a counterchallenge, presenting himself as the true Bread from heaven. He is the true nourishment which appeases not only physical hunger but fulfills all kinds of longing and desire. The fullness of his teaching, the bread of his Word, is true sustenance for all those who seek meaning and purpose in life. Living a full life does not pertain only to material bodily development, but to the growth of the soul and the spirit as well.

“Lord, give us this bread always.” When we are short of joy and love, peace and hope, we pray: “Lord, help us to remember your teachings, your 'Word of Life' to appease our hunger for lasting life and happiness.”

First Reading - Acts 7:51—8:1a