Thursday 23rd April – Thursday of the 3rd week of Eastertide

Reflection: John 6:44-51

THE LIVING BREAD

Have you ever thought of what your Christian faith would be like if you were not Catholic? You may say: “there is really no big deal…I have many friends who are sincere Christians but are not Catholic and they are happy with their lives.” Sure, there are many Christians who love the Lord but do not have the privilege to be Catholic. They do not have the privilege of receiving Christ, the living bread which you and I have.

You can only understand and appreciate your Catholic faith when you sincerely believe Jesus’ words in today’s reading: “I am the living bread which has come down from heaven. Anyone who eats this bread will live forever” (John 6:51). Do you truly believe Jesus’ words? Your attitude to Mass and the Holy Eucharist will prove if you do.

Beloved, what is preventing you from receiving the Holy Eucharist? Is it lust, fornication, abortion, cultism, lies, examination malpractices and other immoral acts? You do not have to wallow in mortal sin and exempt yourself from the table of the Lord. God calls you today to turn away from all that leads to death. He has provided you with the Sacrament of Reconciliation to grant you forgiveness and help you participate in His life giving Body and Blood.

Today, thank God for the gift of your Catholic faith, make a decision to be reconciled with God in confession and approach His table of love so as to be united with Him and strengthened for your spiritual journey.

PRAYER: Sanctify my soul oh Lord, make me always worthy before you. Amen.

KNOW YOUR FAITH: CCC 1395 –  By the same charity that it enkindles in us, the Eucharist preserves us from future mortal sins…The Eucharist is not ordered for the forgiveness of mortal sins – that is proper to the sacrament of Reconciliation.

HIDE A TREASURE: “I am the bread of life” John 6:48 RSV-CE

Today’s Readings: Acts 8: 26-40; Psalm 66: 8-9, 16-17, 20; John 6:44-51