The Eucharist is a banquet that nourishes, celebrates and unites our lives. Christ himself feeds us with his Body and Blood so that we might grow in grace. Two simple questions follow from this great gift:
Are we coming?
Are we coming prepared?
For always remember that one day we will stand before the One who is the source of all grace…and what then will we say?
Mary, Jonah and the people of Nineveh all showed a remarkable sense of focus in the readings today. They were able to zero in on something crucial, and with God’s grace they were able to carry it out.
The Lord offers a parable to illustrate what happens when we persistently turn away from God. Perhaps there have been times in our lives when we know what to do, but we haven’t done it; today offers us a fresh opportunity to draw near to Christ and – with his help – respond to the unique situations of our lives with in manner worthy of Jesus.
James & John are offended by a Samaritan village and threaten to call down fire from Heaven. Jesus rebukes them, reminding us all that when we feel injured or offended to look to the Cross and see God’s solution to our human sin.
Ezekiel and Jesus point out the power of our actions in the spiritual life, and Paul reminds us that our actions are shaped when we take on the attitude of Jesus Christ. It’s practical advice that illustrates our ongoing need to focus on the Lord as we put our faith into practice.
Jesus announces that he will be handed over, and the disciples are afraid to ask him any questions about it. The fact is, the Lord embraces the Cross to free us from our sins…inspiring us not to be afraid but to draw near Him in faith.
Herod is perplexed. Who is Jesus? What is he about? What does it all mean? These questions continue to surface in the world today as people are confronted with the power of God’s saving grace through Jesus Christ.
Jesus gives his Apostles power and authority, and then he invites them to trust in God alone. It’s a good reminder for us to claim the blessings that we’ve been given as we put the Lord first in our lives.