To Be Fed By Christ

In today's Gospel we see the miraculous story of Jesus feeding a multitude of people. "Then he took the seven loaves and the fish, gave thanks, broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, who in turn gave them to the crowds." (Mt 15:36). This verse alone is spiritually rich with tradition that has been carried through our Catholic history up to the present. You also see the mirroring of the Old Testament in the story as well. First, in the Old Testament, we are reminded of the people of Israel wandering in the desert with Moses. We know that God provided the people with mana and quail for their daily rations, but were instructed not to keep any leftover food. This was done to build up the obedience of the people to God, for them to have complete trust in him, that he would take care of them in their time of need. We now jump to Jesus, and see him miraculously feeding a large amount of people. He breaks bread with them, he gives thanks to the Father, gives it to the disciples who then gives it to the crowds. Now going to the present day of the Church and the priesthood, we see the priest in Persona Christi - in the person of Christ. The priest takes the host, the bread, gives thanks and breaks it, and gives it to the people. The Catholic Church is proud to say that it carries apostolic succession that goes directly to Jesus. Unlike the mana in the desert with the people and Moses, Jesus instructs the disciples to gather the leftovers, and here we find that the meaning is no longer about obedience to God, but about the overabundance of love that God has for us. With Jesus, we will never go hungry, and with him there will always be plenty to eat.

Reflection: Do I trust God to provide for me?

Lord God, thank you for today and everyday. Thank you for your love and mercy. Send forth your Spirit oh God, that my heart may be open to you and to your will for me. Assist me Lord, and allow me to know that you have always and will always be there for me in my time of need. I pray, through our Lord Jesus Christ, your son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever, Amen.

Resource: http://usccb.org/bible/readings/120518.cfm