The Good Shepherd offers his life for the care and protection of the sheep. The Lord’s example inspires us: God calls us – in spite of our imperfections and weaknesses – to care and protect those entrusted to us. May we call upon the Shepherd for what we need as we continue his service in the world.
The crowds find the teaching of Jesus too hard, and many who followed him now leave and go back to their former ways. Rejection does not stop us from proclaiming the Good News; rather, it reminds us that people have the freedom to choose their path. May we keep inviting them to follow the Lord!
The Lord teaches the people that those who eat His flesh and drink His blood have eternal life. May our frequent reception of Holy Communion strengthen us with God’s grace in the messiness of life and inspire us to live for Jesus Christ.
Jesus teaches the crowds that he is the “Bread of Life” that came down from Heaven. Whoever eats this bread will never hunger again. May we draw near to the one who feeds us so that strengthened by the Lord we can share His life with one another.
One of the best ways to face a test in school is to start with a prayer, asking the Lord for peace in our hearts. One of the best ways to face a test in life? Do the same!
Jesus states that he is “the Bread of Life” and when we draw near to Him we will never hunger nor thirst again. We need this spiritual nourishment to grow and thrive in this life…and in preparation for the next.
One of the hallmarks of the Early Church was the transformation that took place in the hearts of the disciples. Standing before the Risen Lord, they were freed from the fear of sin and death as they opened their hearts to the power of repentance. Their example inspires us to call upon God for the grace we need every day to walk in the light His love.
As the early Church began to grow new ministries were called for as needs were discerned. This is how the Church continues to thrive today: we recognize the need, call forth the people and are guided by key principles to direct our effort. Now get to work!
Anyone who loves cooking knows the wonderful smell of fresh baked bread. Our bodies require daily nourishment to thrive, and we rely on spiritual food for our relationship with the Lord. Jesus offers both in John’s account today of the miracle of the fish and loaves.
The Apostles speak boldly about the Risen Lord in the face of opposition, and their example inspires us to call upon the Holy Spirit for strength and wisdom as we journey through this life…with our eyes focused on Heaven.