Thursday | May 5, 2022
John 6:44-51:
The ancestors of the Jews were taught by God through the prophets. This was their spiritual food. They were also fed physically by God in the desert. Now Jesus is present, the Word of God, the Bread of Life that will sustain them for all eternity.
Pope Francis said that “Jesus’ declaration that he is the Bread of Life renews our amazement for the gift of the Eucharist.”
Wednesday | May 4, 2022
John 6:35-40:
Another “I am” statement is complete. Jesus is the bread of life. The food and drink analogy in John’s Gospel shows that he is the one, the only one needed to gain eternal life. It is God’s will that everyone believes. The crowd’s initial misunderstanding, in reality — unbelief, is proof that just because they see the truth does not mean they believe. They see what they want to see, not what is real.
I can understand what it is to see only what I want to see. Believing can be hard and scary because of what it demanded of you and what it will demand of me. I pray for clarity and courage.
Tuesday | May 3, 2022
John 14:6-14:
This Gospel begins with Jesus reiterating that he and the Father are one. Phillip is not convinced and asks for visible proof. He wants to see the Father. Though clearly exasperated, Jesus continues the discussion by saying it again. His words and his works are the words and works of the Father. He then turns attention to the disciples by telling them that he is their advocate. They need only ask in Jesus’ name, and they will be able to do what he has done, and more.
Let us pray for all, ourselves included, who question, doubt, deny and betray you, blessed Advocate. May they/we be transformed by your love. Sts. Philip and James, pray for us.
Monday | May 2, 2022
John 6:22-29:
Jesus gives bread from heaven but more importantly, Jesus is the bread from heaven. The manna in the desert sustained the physical needs of the people. Jesus, the bread of life, feeds the souls, nourishing the faith of believers.
Down through the ages there have been so many like St. Athanasius, who have helped believers come to know Jesus. We ask you, St. Athanasius, pray for us that we come to know the faith more deeply and pass it on to others.
Sunday | May 1, 2022
John 21:1-19:
Today, we hear from John’s Gospel, Jesus revealing himself to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias. During the night they fished and caught nothing. Jesus appears on the shore at dawn and instructs them to try again. They do so with great success. They share the meal that Jesus has prepared. Jesus questions Peter. Three times Peter professes his faith and counters the denial. Jesus makes him the shepherd of God’s people.
You did not turn from Peter but rather gave him another chance. You have the same love for each one of us for which we are so thankful.
Saturday | April 30, 2022
John 6:16-21:
The miracle of the loaves is followed by the miracle in today’s Gospel leading to the Bread of Life Discourse. It is night, the wind picks up causing rough waters. Jesus is suddenly there walking toward the boat, which startles the disciples. His words console them, and they know he is with them.
We believe that Jesus is always with us, especially during the storms of our lives.
Friday | April 29, 2022
John 6:1-15:
Chapter 6 of John’s Gospel includes the Bread of Life Discourse. It is an important part of the Easter season. We believe Jesus is the bread of our lives. The multiplication of the loaves is the only miracle in all four Gospels emphasizing the foundation of our faith, the Eucharist.
Listen attentively and prayerfully reflect on the words of the Eucharistic Prayer spoken by the presider. They are your words, Lord Jesus, telling us again and again that you are present.
Thursday | April 28, 2022
John 3:31-36:
Jesus speaks of the sharp distinction between one who comes from above and one from the earth below. Jesus is from above, from God and sent to reveal God’s word. There are those who believe him and those who do not.
Let us pray for those who do not believe. May our actions, reflections of our belief, open their minds and hearts.
Wednesday | April 27, 2022
John 3:16-21:
John concludes Jesus’ discourse with the heart of his message about the Father. God is love and that love is the dynamic that will bring about salvation. The absolute truth is that God loves creation so much that he sent his son, Jesus, to save humankind from itself.
I pray to be a visible sign of God’s love for everyone but especially for those whose hearts are hardened.
Tuesday | April 26, 2022
John 3:7-15:
Nicodemus, a Jewish leader and teacher is attracted to Jesus. Though drawn to Jesus, their conversation reveals Nicodemus’ limited understanding and faith. Jesus asks how it is possible that a Pharisee, a teacher of the Jewish people, does not understand.
Pray for a respectful relationship with our Jewish brothers and sisters. Though we hope for unity may we commit to working together serving our God.
