People do not like to be challenged. Those who stoned Stephen were outraged and offended by his words of criticism and ironically behaved just as he predicted. We are no different - we do not like our opinions and our comfortable little world challenged. Although we probably won't physically attack anyone, some respond with vicious and unkind words. Pope Francis challenged human carelessness and greed, pointing out that it is destroying our common home. Ironically, many Christians angrily rejected his message. When we react with anger and violence, it is a sign that the words were right on the mark.

The crowd was amazed that Jesus had fed them miraculously. They wanted more, but Jesus wanted them to understand its significance. He insisted that the manna that their ancestors had eaten was temporary, for they became hungry again. Since he had come from heaven, he brought a far greater source of nourishment and sustenance - himself, as the bread of life. He was unable to make all of them understand. If we draw our life and sustenance from any source other than God, it will let us down. If we accept the gift that Jesus gives us, it will last eternally. When we feel overwhelmed, we should make sure that we are relying on the nourishment and strength of Jesus and that alone.