They shall all be taught by God

In this first part of the discourse on the Bread of Life, Jesus reveals the substance of his word and teaching as nourishment for life.

- 

In fact, he tries to convince his hearers of the continuity of God's teaching from the time of the prophets up to his own time. He reminds them, “It is written in the prophets: ‘They shall all be taught by God.’ Everyone who listens to my Father and learns from him comes to me” (v 45).

The whole of Chapter 6 of John is a preview of the Mass as we know it now. The first part of the discourse points to the Liturgy of the Word, the part of the Mass where we listen to and try to assimilate the teaching of Christ. That is why we also call it “the table of the Word.”

The Word of God is offered to us as bread—both for this earthly journey and for the life hereafter: “Whoever eats this bread will live forever” (v 51). How much attention do I give to the readings at Mass and to the homily? Am I able to assimilate Christ’s teaching, letting it inspire my words and actions in actual life?

First Reading - Acts 8:26-40