After reading chapter three of John with its allusions to Baptism we
now turn to the eucharistic motif of chapter six. Jesus' work of feeding
the people evokes recognition in them that He is prophet. He sees their
very real need and responds to it in a super-abundant way. The faith
that this act brings forth is not perfect christian faith. Jesus builds
His disciples slowly. In giving the bread Jesus alludes to the
liberating journey of the Exodus, at the time of the Passover - Exodus, both in
its historical memory and also its fulfilment in the journey that Jesus
will make to His Father.
This is a journey the disciples too must embark on. So the words of
Gamaliel are almost a paraphrase of Jesus' words 'by their fruits you
shall know them'. The learned rabbi quotes the example of other Gallileans
who had been given messianic fame but whose movements collapsed after
their death. Should Jesus' way be another such movement it would also
fade. Like most sound advice Gamaliel's was not followed. The final act
of witness of the apostles in Jerusalem is their contentment at
suffering for Jesus and constancy in their preaching. Their trust in God
expressed itself in very definite attitudes.
Lord guide as we journey towards You.
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DAILY OFFERING
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Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings.
Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary,
my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage
discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.
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PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
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INTENTION
That consecrated people, answering the call of their
particular vocation, may radiate the spirit of the Gospel beatitudes in the
present-day world
Elaboration
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