At the conclusion of the sixth chapter of John’s Gospel, as disciples are leaving after the “hard” teaching of Jesus, Peter responds to the Lord’s question with a declaration of faith in Christ.
Jesus offers a parable to the chief priests and Pharisees, reminding us that while God’s invitation is extended throughout our lives, it is up to us to respond.
Jesus offers a deep insight to a zealous young man who seeks God, only to challenge his ability to detach from “stuff” and seek the Lord above all else.
Let’s examine some of the themes that surface in the Mass Readings for the 21st Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – Joshua 24:1-2a,15-17,18b
Joshua gathers the people at Shechem and tells them to choose who they will follow.
The people recall God’s mighty deeds and declare that they will serve the Lord.
Psalm – 34:2-3,16-21
“Taste and see the goodness of the Lord.”
The Lord hears and rescues the brokenhearted when they cry out for help.
2nd Reading – Ephesians 5:21-32
Husbands and wives are called to be subordinate to one another out of reverence for Christ.
As husbands and wives serve and sacrifice, they mirror the mystery of Christ and the church.
Gospel – John 6:60-69
After hearing the “bread of life” discourse, many of the disciples of Jesus left him saying, “This teaching is hard; who can accept it?”
Jesus asks the Twelve, “Do you also want to leave?”
Peter responds, “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and are convinced that you are the Holy One of God.”
Jesus teaches that his flesh is real food and his blood is real drink, and the Real Presence of Christ is apparent whenever we gather at the altar to receive the Lord at Mass.
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