June 19, 2022: The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, Solemnity
Gospel: Luke 9:11-17
Jesus received them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and he healed those who needed to be cured. As the day was drawing to a close, the Twelve approached him and said, “Dismiss the crowd so that they can go to the surrounding villages and farms and find lodging and provisions; for we are in a deserted place here.” He said to them, “Give them some food yourselves.” They replied, “Five loaves and two fish are all we have, unless we ourselves go and buy food for all these people.” Now the men there numbered about five thousand. Then he said to his disciples, “Have them sit down in groups of (about) fifth.” They did so and made them all sit down. Then taking the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, he said the blessing over them, broke them, and gave them to the disciples to set before the crowd. They all ate and were satisfied. And when the leftover fragments were picked up, they filled twelve wicker baskets.
Reflection
Meals are a focus in many of the Gospels. But the main focus of this Gospel is not only on sharing, but also to remind us of Jesus’ presence in the Eucharist. We are also called to share. Not what we can buy and give to another, but sharing, sharing while joining in the meal. They sat down and share the food offered them. I wonder what they talked about. I wonder about the gratitude shared for the meal. I wonder …
Action
This week would be a good time to have a meal and share yourself with the others with whom you are eating. Remember the gifts Christ has given to us and our family. Chat, laugh and love! Mealtime is a perfect time to do this.
I often wonder what those meal time conversations were like when I read about Jesus sitting down with someone. Thank you, Cathy, for the beautiful reflection and the reminder to make meal time meaningful.